Frisco, Colorado – The Colorado Buffaloes ski team celebrated a remarkable win at the Denver Invitational, marking an exciting start to the 2026 season. The women’s team showcased their strength, while the men also secured a podium finish.
The women posted an impressive 98 points, with Tilde Baangman and Astri Lunde finishing first and second, respectively. Selma Nevin contributed by finishing 10th, and both Elena Grissom and Sophie Spalding helped by placing within the top 16. Unfortunately, Nina Schamberger didn’t compete.
“I’m really happy with my race today,” Baangman shared. “I tried to pace myself but ended up leading quite a bit. I was pleased with how it turned out.”
For the men, Storm Pedersen led with a strong second-place finish, while Johannes Flaaten came in 10th, and Luka Riley placed 19th. Despite fielding a limited team due to Olympic commitments, the men finished third with a total of 75 points.
Denver outpaced Colorado in the men’s event, scoring 94 points compared to the Buffs’ 75. After seven events, Colorado’s lead shrank to 48 points. However, the women’s strong performance helped secure the overall meet victory with a final score of 714 to Denver’s 638, and Utah trailing with 499.5.
In the men’s race, Pedersen skied confidently, finishing with the quickest second lap and the third-fastest final lap. Flaaten improved in the last lap, jumping into the top 10. Riley maintained consistency to help add to Colorado’s points.
The women’s race saw Baangman dominate from the start, achieving the fastest times on all three laps. Lunde stayed right behind her, matching her pace closely. Nevin had a strong showing early on but fell to 10th. Spalding, however, ended strong and improved her final standing.
Next up, the Nordic teams will compete on February 13-14 at the CU Spencer James Nelson Memorial Invitational at Howelsen Hill in Steamboat Springs.
Team Highlights
- In the men’s race, Pedersen, Flaaten, and Riley collectively secured 75 points.
- Colorado excelled in the women’s scoring, placing first overall.
- The Buffs have shown exceptional performance, particularly in the women’s division, where they finished with a stunning 377 points.
Men’s Nordic Notes
- Storm Pedersen continues to shine, achieving his fifth consecutive top-five finish.
- Johannes Flaaten has recorded four straight top-10 finishes, indicating consistent performance.
- Luka Riley maintains a streak with 10 straight top-20 finishes.
Women’s Nordic Notes
- Tilde Baangman has been on fire, with three victories this season and multiple podiums.
- Astri Lunde achieved her best freestyle finish yet with her second-place result.
- Both Nevin and Grissom have shown steady improvement, each recording top finishes this season.
Final Team Scores
- Colorado: 714
- Denver: 638
- Utah: 499.5
- Montana State: 480
- Alaska Anchorage: 457
This event wasn’t just a win; it sets the tone for the rest of the season, emphasizing the Buffaloes’ rise in the competitive ski landscape. Their remarkable display of talent and teamwork might inspire a new generation of athletes.
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