Axelsson, Irwin Go 1-2 in NCAA Regional Classic Race

NCAA Central Region Classic Results: Women's 15K | Men's 20K

ISHPEMING, Mich. — Michigan Tech had a region champion for the second day in a row as the Huskies completed day two of the NCAA Central Region Championships at Al Quaal Recreation Area today. Ulrika Axelsson and Deedra Irwin finished first and second in the women's 15-kilometer classic race.

Final team scoring at the weekend event showed Tech's women in second and the men in third.

Axelsson posted a time of 45:12 to claim the classic title. Irwin pushed her the entire race, finishing less than a second back at 45:13. The two were 13 seconds ahead of third place and 40 seconds ahead of fourth. Alice Flanders, who was the freestyle champion yesterday, was 11th today with a 47:06.

Tech's women had the best combined score on the day, beating out Northern Michigan by two points.

Haakon Hjelstuen was the men's top finisher for the second consecutive day. The Norwegian crashed while skiing with the race leaders and still finished ninth to earn all-region honors. He completed the 20K course in a time of 52:41. Thomas Kendrick was 14th in 54:21. David Joda was Tech's third finisher in 17th position (55:17).

"It was a great day for Michigan Tech, especially the women's team," said Tech coach Joe Haggenmiller. "Ulrika and Deedra  shredded the field.

"Haakon was probably not recovered entirely from yesterday and still skied a strong race. Thomas and David both skied well, too.

"Our coaching staff is really proud of the whole team."

Michigan Tech will look to have numerous individuals qualify for the NCAA Championships at Lake Placid, N.Y., on Mar. 12 and 14. The final participant lists will be released on Tuesday (Mar. 3).