The US Cross Country skiing championships concluded on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Kincaid Park in Anchorage. Kendall Kramer, a University of Alaska Fairbanks senior, made history by winning her first national title in the 20K classic mass-start race. Kramer’s time of 58 minutes, 17.2 seconds edged out Erica Laven, a Swedish skier competing for the University of Utah.
Kramer’s victory was a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport. Growing up in Fairbanks, Kramer had always considered Kincaid Park her home course. He praised the course conditions and credited her experience skiing in Anchorage for her success.
In the men’s 20K classic mass-start race, Andreas Kirkeng, a Norwegian skier competing for the University of Denver, took the top spot with a time of 50:47.5. John Steel Hagenbuch, a Dartmouth College skier, finished second overall and claimed his second national title with a time of 50:58.0.
Anchorage’s Luke Jager, an APU ski team member and 2022 Olympian, led all Alaskans with the most podium finishes throughout the event. Jager won the classic sprint national title on Saturday and finished third in the 20K classic mass-start race.
Kendall Kramer’s victory marked a significant milestone in her skiing career. Her determination and perseverance paid off, inspiring young skiers across the country. As Kramer looks to the future, she remains focused on her goals. She is ready to take on new challenges and continue to make her mark in the world of cross-country skiing.
The US cross-country skiing championships showcased exceptional talent and determination from skiers nationwide. The event highlighted the growth and development of cross-country skiing in the US. With Kendall Kramer’s victory as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
This news story was originally published by Anchorage Daily News.
