The eight students selected for the team this year were: Jordan Wade, Ryan Burgoyne, Kieran Gawn, Benjamin McLaren, Owen Westall, Oliver O’Brien, Lachlan Hawker and Ruben Lee-Robertson. In preparation for the event, the team had six race coaching sessions at Snowplanet during Terms 2 and 3.
For the fifth year in a row, the team was hosted by the Pinnacles Ski Club at Whakapapa. The weather for the competition this year was a real mixed bag, with the event having to be delayed for two consecutive days due to adverse conditions. On the third day it finally came right, with perfect bluebird skies and unlimited visibility for the Giant Slalom.
The Giant Slalom involved competitors racing against the clock for the fastest times. As expected, competition was fierce, with some spectacular racing. In a large field of 244 boys, Ryan placed 122nd, followed by Kieran 123rd, Owen 132nd, Lachlan 143rd, Jordan 193rd, Ruben 216th, Oliver 217th and Benjamin 218th. Having had such a great day of racing in perfect conditions, expectations were high for the following day. Unfortunately, the weather had other ideas and the Dual Slalom had to be cancelled.
Overall, Somerville placed 47th out of the 98 schools that were represented at the event.
Special mention to Barry Westall, Ramon Lee-Robertson and Paul Burgoyne who volunteered as Course Assistants and Team Manager to assist with the running of the event. Thanks also to Robin O’Brien, Colin Wade, Ruth McLaren and Callum Hawker for all your support during the week as well.
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