By: Caleb Horsch
Despite challenging temperatures, two athletes weathered the conditions at the Saint Michael's Carnival to be named EISA Skiers of the Week. The UVM duo of Caroline Jones and Cole Palchack delivered excellent results as the Catamounts continued their dominance of the EISA circuit.
Jones has been fantastic in Slalom this season and scored her third podium in the discipline. Starting the season with an opening win at Bates, she's backed that performance up with two straight third place finishes. Although she lost her Slalom leaders bib to Resnick, who was tied with Jones going into the race, she trails by only 40 points and is within striking distance this Saturday.
Jones finished third on both runs Saturday, and despite trailing her teammate Moa Clementson and Dartmouth skier Allie Resnick held onto third place by a comfortable margin. On a day when many lost track of the race amidst the conditions, Jones kept her concentration.
Caroline Jones (University of Vermont) - Stephen R Cloutier
Entering the series, Palchack had not done better than 4th in a college race. However, he showed speed on Saturday, putting him among the best on the circuit. His dominant first run put him in the driving seat for his second run, where he was able to hold on for the win.
Both Palchack and Jones now have multiple top 5's, all but guaranteeing their qualification to NCAA Championships this March.
Cole Palchack (University of Vermont) - flyingpointroad.com
Compared to this weekend, balmy weather will greet racers when the Harvard Carnival kicks off this Friday at Waterville Valley. Friday's races can be streamed live here.