We next spotlight freshman Alden Reardon of Fort Kent. He won the 2023 Class C Classical, Freestyle, and Pursuit titles. He helped his team win the team title. We asked him about his season and his thinking at the starting line.
1. What were your preparations leading up to the state meet? Before the race, we had consistent practices and we focused on the harder parts of the course.
2. How did you deal with the pressure and emotions that come along with competing in a state meet? I didn't feel any bad nerves or pressure before the race. I was just nervous enough to stay focused.
3. What was going through your mind at the starting line? At the start of the classic race, I was paying close attention to make sure that my skis were not going to get iced up. On the day of the skate race, I was making sure to stay warmed up enough since the hills are near the start of the course.
4. What do you contribute your success to? I think roller skiing in the summer helps a lot, along with having a great team and coaches.
5. What are your goals/plans for next year? Next year I plan to keep on roller skiing in the summer.
6. What surprised you the most about this season? I was surprised by the growth our whole team throughout the season.
7. What moment/event will you remember the most from the season? I will remember the State race - all the fun corners and hearing all the people cheering.
8. What do you like most about Nordic Skiing? I like skiing itself a lot and every body in the sport