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Ben Morin '24 takes 3rd at NEPSAC Skiing Championships

Whether it’s the Olympic Games or something else, a podium is a podium, and it’s a great feeling to stand on one.

Wilbraham & Monson Academy’s Ben Morin ’24 earned a spot on the podium at the New England Prep School Athletic Council Ski Championships at Wachusett Mountain in Westminster, Massachusetts, Feb. 16, taking third in the slalom race.

Ben stood in sixth after his first run of 46.15 seconds, but skied more aggressively (45.08) on his second run to earn himself a medal.

Ben, who competes on weekends in the Vermont Alpine Racing Association, placed ninth in the giant slalom, one place behind teammate Giorgi Mumladze ’23.

Quotes

Ben on his mindset headed into his second run: “After my first run I was in sixth place, but only seven-tenths of a second off of the leader and I knew I could get on the podium if I skied harder and faster. I was extremely focused going into my second run, not thinking about anything else, just getting down as fast as possible.”

Ben on taking third: “After finishing the race in third, I felt very happy. I was getting hugs from teammates, and it was a great feeling. Standing on the podium and being presented with my medal felt great. All of the work and effort I had put in this season had finally paid off.”

Coach Greg Morin on Ben’s performance in the slalom: “Ben skied the first run a bit conservatively and was not overwhelmed by his time that had him in sixth place. Watching the competition, he knew he could do better. For his second run he went into attack mode. He skied the second run aggressively and looked very good. His comment after the run was that he had skied really fast.”

Coach Morin on Ben’s ability as a skier: “I would say Ben is likely better in GS, but it is very close. However, Ben is a light kid and ski racing is all about gravity. Ben tends to excel in steeper, more technical terrain that minimizes his weight disadvantage. This year's NEPSAC race was held at Wachusett Mountain, and the GS course was pretty flat and that was reflected in Ben's times. The SL course did not include the same flat sections and was better for Ben.”

 

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