CMU’s Greta Bochenek Wins National Title in 7.5K Classic at Lake Placid
LAKE PLACID, N.Y. (March 10, 2026)
Day one of racing at the U.S. Collegiate Ski & Snowboard Association (USCSA) National Championships delivered a historic result for Colorado Mesa University, as Greta Bochenek claimed the national title in the 7.5-kilometer classic interval start at Mt. Van Hoevenberg.
Racing in exceptionally challenging conditions, with mid-race temperatures climbing toward 50°F and rapidly changing snow, Bochenek delivered a composed and powerful performance to secure gold in a deep and highly competitive field.
Bochenek crossed the line in 23:11.1, edging out Amaeli Kam-Magruder of St. Olaf College by 4.73 seconds, while creating significant separation over the rest of the field. Third-place finisher Liesl Cope-Schaeffer (St. Olaf) trailed by more than 36 seconds, underscoring the strength of Bochenek’s race.
It was a controlled and decisive effort that was tight at the very top, but beyond that, Bochenek effectively broke the field.
Top 10 Results – 7.5K Classic (Women)
- Greta Bochenek (Colorado Mesa University) – 23:11.1
- Amaeli Kam-Magruder (St. Olaf College) – +4.73
- Liesl Cope-Schaeffer (St. Olaf College) – +36.03
- Greta Dickman (Paul Smith’s College) – +50.31
- Rowan Tanguay (Paul Smith’s College) – +1:29.43
- Elizabeth Weider (St. Olaf College) – +2:01.11
- Lily Ward (St. Olaf College) – +2:02.46
- Eleanor Veauthier (University of Wyoming) – +2:36.46
- Maisy Morley (Western Colorado University) – +2:54.63
- Anna Peikert (St. Olaf College) – +2:58.03
Bochenek’s victory set the tone for the CMU Cross Country Ski Team on the national stage.
Ruthie Richardson delivered a strong performance, finishing 16th (26:45.7) and securing a top-20 result in a highly competitive field. Mya Taylor (36th) and Jane Malouf (38th) rounded out the team’s effort, contributing valuable experience at the championship level.
In difficult waxing conditions and on one of the sport’s most demanding courses, CMU proved it can compete, and win, against the best collegiate programs in the country. Bochenek’s national title marks a defining moment for the program and sets the stage for the remainder of the championships in Lake Placid.