March 21, 2005 – This Wednesday is the final New England Nordic Ski Association ski event of the season, and the first Nordic sprint ever hosted in the city of Portland. The action will kick off at 4PM with a qualification round on the twisting and turning one kilometer loop at Deering Oaks Park. Skiers will ski one at a time in the qualification round and advance to the head-to-head heats based on their standings. The heats start at 6PM with the 6-person elite semi-finals for men and women, followed immediately by the 4-person finals for men and women. After the elite champions are determined, the action will take on a more local flavor with head-to-head heats to crown age group champions.

The atmosphere will be festive with an announcer to help spectators follow the action, music, and some of the very best skiers of all ages from throughout New England choosing to compete. Confirmed skiers include Chris Mallory from UNH who recorded the most wins on this year’s Banknorth Eastern Cup circuit; Ida Sargent from Burke Mountain Academy who was the fastest qualifier in this year’s Junior National sprint; and local hero Ben Knowles from Greely High School and Coastal Nordic who earned a national title in the relay at this year’s Junior Nationals. World Championship team members Kris Freeman of Andover, NH (4th at 2003 World Championships) and David Chamberlain (Bethel, Maine) are seriously considering attending the event. Since they arrive home from Europe on Monday, we have not yet been able to confirm their attendance.

A cash prize of $250 will be awarded to the men’s and women’s champions, with the 2nd place finishers taking home a $100 gift certificate donated by L.L. Bean.

The 1st Annual Banknorth Nordic Sprint Championships is hosted by the City of Portland, the New England Nordic Ski Association, Coastal Nordic Ski Club, Portland Ski Club, and Cape Nordic Ski Club.