February 15, 2008 (Williamstown, NH) – Dartmouth took an early lead Friday at the Williams College carnival, thanks in part to another win by its women’s Nordic team. Even in the absence of Bogner points leader Ida Sargent, Dartmouth women were able to secure the win in Friday’s five kilometer freestyle event at Prospect Mountain. Big Green skier Susan Dunklee earned the top podium position in Friday’s race, followed by team mate Elsa Sargent and the University of New Hampshire’s Sarah Wright. Williams skier Alice Nelson matched her season-high finish of fifth place today on her home course.

In women’s team standings Dartmouth (92 points) beat out the University of New Hampshire (82 points) and the University of Vermont (71 points), who placed second and third, respectively. Wyatt Fereday, finished second, fourth, and seventh, respectively. Sylvan Ellefson of Bates took the win Friday, his first of the season, and Tim Reynolds of Middlebury skied to an impressive third place.

Colby men scored 89 points Friday, placing them ahead of Bates and Dartmouth, who tied for second with 79 points. Of note, Bates’ second place finish Friday was it’s highest thus far this season. Middlebury finished just one point behind in fourth.

After the first day of racing, Dartmouth (309 points) is trailed by Middlebury (292 points) and the University of Vermont (288 points). Williams Carnival racing continues Saturday with the Nordic 3 by 1.5 kilometer sprint relays at Prospect Mountain and the slalom event at Jiminy Peak.

Information about the remaining schedule, as well as up-to-date results and team standings can be found here.