Anchorage Daily News

Three Alaska nordic skiers who were part of Denver University's NCAA championship team will be at the White House on Tuesday to receive President Bush's congratulations.

A total of 18 NCAA teams will be at the White House for Champions Day, celebrating a variety of championship teams from the 2007--08 season.

The three Alaska skiers on Denver's squad are:

• Mike Hinckley, a two-time former state and Cook Inlet Conference skimeister, from Service High. The junior finished 10th in classical and 15th in freestyle in the NCAA West Regional.

• Daniel Clark, a former East High skier who redshirted last season.

• Katie Ronsee, a former Service skier who competed in five races for Denver.

"Winning the national championship was a result of hard work and individual sacrifices for the sake of the team," said David Stewart, nordic head coach at Denver. "We are pleased that all members of the team will be honored by the president for their achievements."

The 2008 University of Denver ski team claimed its 19th team title at the NCAA National Championships in Bozeman, Mont. Denver's 19 team championships in skiing are the most in NCAA history.

The Kansas Jayhawks, featuring former Bartlett standout Mario Chalmers, visited the White House on June 3.

ADVERTISEMENT