The Gustavus women’s nordic ski team had a big first day at the MIAC Championships and holds an 11- point lead over Saint Olaf heading into the second day. The Gusties totalled 32 points on the day followed by Saint Olaf with 21, St. Ben’s with 16 and Macalester with nine.
Chandra Daw won the 5 kilometer freestyle race to lead the Gusties. She was supported by teammates Nicole Olson in second, and Ingrid Olson in fourth. All three earned all-conference honors. Other finishes for Gustavus included Kelly Damrow in fifth, Erin McCarty in ninth, Kristen DeVries in 10th, Melissa Kittock in 13th and Ritva Taipale in 17th.
The championship will conclude on Sunday with the 10 kilometer classical race. Ingrid Olson of Gustavus is the defending champion. The meet is being held at the Graystone Ski Trails in Saint Cloud, Minnesota.