Suspensions hit the Durango High School girls ski team ahead of the state championship races Friday at Loveland Ski Area. One Demon was still able to compete.
Anissa Allred, a junior, placed 50th in giant slalom Friday morning with a two-run time of 2:15.48. Summit’s Ella Snyder, a freshman, claimed the victory in 1:45.03, while Summit junior Jenna Sheldon was second in 1:45.96 and Aspen sophomore Stella Sherlock was third in 1:46.70.
Slalom followed in the afternoon. Summit junior Olyvia Snyder posted the fastest time in both runs to win in 1:28.48. Sheldon again was second with a two-run time of 1:30.59, while Sherlock took yet another bronze in 1:34.96.
Allred made it a second-consecutive 50th-place finish, as the Demon finished in 2:16.03.
It was the end to a hectic week for the Durango High ski team, highlighted by sophomore Toby Scarpella placing third in boys giant slalom and fifth in slalom.
Allred was a late callup to girls state because of quarantine situation that had an impact on both boys and girls alpine ski teams as well as the coaching staff.
Members of the girls team also were suspended Thursday for a student discipline matter.
“While student discipline records are not publicly available, when student athletes violate the athletic code of conduct, they are subject to the disciplinary guidelines outlined in the code, which may include suspension depending on the violations,” Durango School District 9-R spokeswoman Julie Popp said. “Unfortunately, we did become aware of a few of the student athletes on the girls ski team who had violated the code to the degree to require suspension; which also meant they are ineligible to compete at the state level.
“While we can’t discuss specifics of student matters, we are honored to still have students who will represent DHS at the state level. We know this is hard for the students and their families who are unable to compete, and will work with the students and their families to reflect upon the matter and make decisions on positive steps forward. Thanks to all our student athletes who continue to model positive behaviors for their peers and our community, most of whom have overcome many challenges this year in pursuing their athletic passions during COVID-19.”
Both the Aspen boys and girls won the team state titles, as the Skiers swept the Nordic championships a week earlier while Chase Kelly won both boys races Thursday.
jlivingston@durangoherald.com
