MIDWAY, Utah — St. Scholastica Nordic skier Della Bettendorf (Proctor, MN/Proctor HS) wrapped up her freshman season Saturday by competing in the women's 20-kilometer mass start freestyle race at the NCAA Skiing Championships at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center.

Bettendorf finished 34th in a field of the nation's top collegiate skiers, closing out a strong debut season while gaining valuable experience competing on the national stage.

After warm and deteriorating snow conditions impacted Thursday's classic races, Saturday's freestyle competition saw firmer tracks at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center. Cloud cover and temperatures just above freezing helped keep the course more consistent throughout the race, providing athletes with more stable skiing conditions over the demanding 20-kilometer course.

"We had a good trip to the Nationals at Soldier Hollow in Utah and the OC did a great job hosting last minute," said head coach Jason Kask. "Della raced hard and showed the grit and determination we have seen from her all season. It was a great showing for her first national championship."

Bettendorf qualified for the NCAA Championships after a strong season for the Saints and represented St. Scholastica in both Nordic events during the week, racing against the top collegiate skiers in the country.

In the team standings, the University of Utah narrowly edged the University of Colorado to claim the 2026 NCAA Skiing Championship.