We will now interview junior Rowan Barry of Greely for our state champion spotlight. Rowan was the 2025 Class B Classical, Freestyle, and Pursuit
state champion. She also won the 2025 WMC Classical and Freestyle titles. We asked her about her successes and her plans for her senior year:
1) What were your preparations leading up to the state meet?
We had just started having consistent on-snow practices at Pineland, so I was training pretty hard up to the weekend before. But also focusing on hydrating, eating well, and sleeping enough to make sure I was at my best for the races.
2) How did you deal with the pressure and emotions that come along with competing in a state meet?
Breaking the race down and thinking strategically about how to ski each part makes it feel less daunting. I also tried to go into each race with a positive attitude, be confident in my training, and remember to have fun.
3) What was going through your mind at the start?
I was definitely hoping the wind would die down, especially going through the exposed stadium, and trying to get out fast, but controlled.
4) What do you contribute your success to?
I contribute my success this season to taking every opportunity to ski on snow, but also training hard off the snow. I did a lot of strength training and running throughout the season to get in my best shape. I also owe it to great coaches and teammates who make the endless dryland days fun.
5) What are your goals/plans for next year?
To keep skiing and improving. I'm planning to build up more strength going into the season and keep working on my technique. I'm also hoping to get a team title next season.
6) What surprised you the most about this season?
This season I was surprised by how my downhills improved. Downhills have always been one of my weaker areas, but this season I was surprised by how much more confident I felt taking them at full speed.
7) What moment/event will you remember the most from the season?
The whole states trip! I'll definitely remember how cold and windy it was, hiking up high school hill with my team to cheer on the boys, winning my first state championship, and our team tying for second by less than a second.
8) What do you like most about Nordic Skiing?
I like how unique and challenging of a sport it is, combining endurance, strength, and technique. I also love getting outside in the winter and being a part of such a fun and kind community.
9) Anything else that you would like to add?
Thanks to Quarry Road for making snow so we could have an opportunity to ski, and my coaches for spending weekends driving up to snow, and the boosters for always bringing food :)
