January 6, 2010 (Anchorage, AK) – It was James Southam’s turn to shine at the US XC Ski 2010 Nationals as the APUNSC skier claimed the 30km classic national title in 1:32:08 over Kris Freeman (US Ski Team) in second at 1:09.9 with Bryan Cook (CXC) taking the final spot on the podium in 3rd.

For Southam from Anchorage it was his fifth career title and he predicted how the race would play out. “Going into the 30km I knew it would be between Kris [Freeman, Andover, NH] and I,” said Southam. The win for the home crowd in Anchorage meant a lot to the Alaska Pacific University skier. “I’m super psyched. To win at home in front of all my friends and family was awesome.”

Being able to compete against, and best the top-ranked Freeman, was an honour for Southam. “To finally beat Kris after the last time I beat him in 2001 – the skier who has been the best in the country for a better half of the last decade – is pretty cool,” he added.

The 2010 ConocoPhillips U.S. Cross Country Championships wrap up on Friday with a men’s and women’s classic sprint.

With files from USSA.

Men’s unofficial full results here.

Results (brief)

1. James Southam (APUNSC) 1:32:08
2. Kris Freeman (US Ski Team) +1:09.9
3. Bryan Cook (CXC) +1:34.7
4. David Morris (Fairbanks Alaska Ski Team) +1:49.6
5. Brian Gregg (CXC) +3:09.5
6. Justin Freeman (NENSA) +3:16.05