Patten Set to Compete at OPA Cup Finals

HOUGHTON, Mich.  – Junior Michigan Tech Nordic skier Skylar Patten has been selected to compete for the U.S. Ski Team in the OPA Cup Finals in Dobbiaco/Toblach, Italy, taking place over the weekend (Mar. 17-19).

"Making this trip means a lot to me," Patten said. "I've wanted to make a US Ski team trip for the past six years and have been unsuccessful until now. I honestly don't know what to expect for the racing but that's when I have my best races so I am pretty stoked to race this weekend. Snow conditions are a little rough but I really like the course and I think it'll suit me well."

Patten earned one of the eight spots available on the U.S. Team and will compete in the OPA Cup Finals through his podium finish in the 10km Skate Interval Start at the 2023 U.S. Cross Country Ski National Championships, held at the Tech Trails on January 2.

About the OPA Cup

The OPA Cup is one of the FIS Cross-Country Continental Cups. The OPA Cup is a circuit for athletes living and competing in the alpine countries. Located in Toblach, Italy, OPA Cup Finals provides qualified U.S. athletes with a valuable development opportunity to experience World Cup courses and adapt to the demands of high-level international competition.

FIS Information

Race information, daily schedule, start list and results can be found here. 

Race Schedule:

17th: Skate Sprint

18th: Skate 10km Interval Start

19th: Classic 15km Pursuit