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The Chisago Lakes/St. Croix Falls alpine ski team opened the 2007-08 season at the Virginia Invitational Thursday, December 13.

The Wildcat girls edged the host school 335-330 for first place in the 13 school event. The boys placed second with 358 points. Virginia's boys won the event with a score of 375.

Individually, Wildcat Simone Raedeke was second down the Giants Ridge course. Her two-run total time was 1:20.76, compared to winner Brabara Mikova, who finished in 1:18.73. Mark Sandgren's 1:23.25 led the Wildcats and placed him ninth. Chris Rider won the boys' race in 1:19.81.

"I was pleased with the team. Most of the older kids are showing good leadership," said Wildcat head coach Dan Raedeke. "The younger kids are improving every day. It was a good test for our skiers."

Ski fans get a chance to see the Wildcat skiers at the Wild Mountain Invitational Friday, December 20. The meet is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.

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