We will now spotlight state champion Kayley Bell of Caribou. Kayley won the 2022 MPA Class B Classical, Freestyle, and Pursuit at Black Mtn. She was also
the Aroostook Country champion. We asked her about her state meet preparations and her favorite memories.
1) What were your preparations leading up to the state meet? My preparations leading up to the state meet were to practice every day and focus on improving my technique.
2) How did you deal with the pressure and emotions that come along with competing in a state meet? I dealt with the emotions of going to a state meet by having lots of fun with my teammates while staying focused on my goals.
3) What was going through your mind at the start knowing that the snow conditions were challenging? When at the start line and looking at the course on the first day, the only thing that was going through my head was “How am I going to get around the puddles?” It was a totally new experience on that type of course, and I just went for it.
4) What are some of your best memories from ski racing this past season? Some of my best memories from this season are getting to spend time with teammates. Many of us also did Cross Country this fall, so being able to hang out and train together again all winter was really special.
5) What were your goals for this season and did you achieve them? What led to all of your success?
My goals for this season were to improve on my technique and win a State Championship. I just focused on working as hard as I could every day and never giving up.
6) Anything else that you would like to add? I would like to thank my coach for all of her help and support this season along with my mom, dad, and sister for all of their support. I am also thankful for all of my teammates who were always there for me!