Best State finish for Como Park Skis

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LandrumPhoto_IOC Marshal Landrum (left) is pictured with Mattie Watts at the Minnesota High School State Nordic Skiing Championship. Landrum loaned his skis to Watts just minutes before her race, where she went on to win. (Photo courtesy of skinnyskis.com)[/caption]

Marshal Landrum had the best boys’ Como Park finish ever at the 2014 Minnesota High School State Nordic Skiing Championship. Landrum placed 56th in a competitive field, besting a 78th place finish by Andrew Brown in 2007. Even with his impressive race, Landrum’s skis (and generosity), were destined for a bigger finish.

After his race, as Landrum was heading out to watch the girl’s classic pursuit, a friend asked what kind of bindings his classic skis have. Mattie Watts, of Irondale High School, the current leader was waiting minutes from her start…without her skis. Landrum quickly grabbed his skis and gave them to the distraught Watts two minutes before her start! With at least a pair of skis, she headed to the start line with skis made and waxed for a guy about 4 inches taller and 20 lbs heavier.

As the race began, it soon became clear that Watts had kick, but it was not ideal. Vivian Hett, the number one ranked skier in the State started 23 seconds later and started to erode gap between them. Within 3k, Watts’ lead was gone and Hett was on the tails of her skis. Watts retained her lead and pulled away on the downhills, powering her way to a six-second victory much to the relief of friends and family. Landrum was so impressed, he asked for an autograph… on his skis. Landrum’s generosity showed the true spirit of a state champion. As for his skiis…none have ever placed better than his, or ever will. That’s a first for Como.

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