Colorado Mesa Skiers Have Commenced Training
The team has been spotted using roller skis near the Colorado National Monument to prepare for winter races.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Skiing
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The Colorado Mesa University Cross Country Ski Team has begun training for the upcoming season using roller skis on the hills near the Colorado National Monument. Two members of the 12-person squad will also compete for Team USA at the World University Games in Changchun, China.
Why it matters
The team utilizes specific terrain near the Colorado National Monument to simulate sustained climbs. This training helps bridge the gap between local flat, rolling terrain and the steep conditions found in competitive skiing.
The 12-member squad includes athletes who secured 15K freestyle individual titles last season. The team continues to utilize local terrain to prepare for upcoming national and international competition cycles.
The players
Colorado Mesa University Cross Country Ski Team
This collegiate athletic program competes in the USCSA and represents Grand Junction in winter sports.
Greta Bochenek
She is a member of the Colorado Mesa University ski team selected to represent the United States at the World University Games.
Wes Sumner
He is a collegiate skier who will compete internationally for Team USA in the upcoming World University Games.
The details
Athletes are training on paved hills to build endurance for winter races. Because the Grand Mesa area lacks sustained climbs, the team focuses their roller ski sessions on the challenging topography surrounding the nearby monument.
Timeline
Last season the team won multiple individual national titles.
Season Trajectory
This training cycle builds upon the momentum from the team's successful performance at the USCSA National Championships. By sending representatives to the World University Games, the program is actively expanding its influence beyond the domestic collegiate circuit.
The selection of two athletes for Team USA marks a significant milestone for the program's national standing. Residents may see the team training on roads near the Colorado National Monument throughout the current preseason window.
The takeaway
Consistent training on paved inclines is essential for athletes living in areas without natural alpine climbs. Proper roller ski technique during the off-season directly translates to improved performance on winter snow.
Further reading
For more updates on regional athletic programs, visit the Skiing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kkco11news.
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