By DAVID McLAUGHLIN
Correspondent Monday, March 26, 2007

enlarge Staff photo by Jeff Pouland

Mt. Blue High School sophomore Welley Ramsey is the Morning Sentinel's boys Nordic Skier of the Year.

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Welley Ramsey nurtured a love for Nordic skiing early in life. The Mt. Blue High School sophomore would race across the road from his house, strap on a pair of old wooden skis to enjoy a beautiful day with his family around their New Sharon home.

Those experiences helped Ramsey develop into one of the top Nordic high school ski racers in Maine in just his second season of competing at the high school level. This season, he collected three second-place finishes and a third at the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference and Class A state meets, elevating his status as a serious contender for the next two seasons.

For his efforts, Ramsey has been named the Morning Sentinel Boys Nordic Skier of the Year. Also considered were Derek Rowe, Alex Prentiss and Peter Smith of Mt. Blue.

"This season Welley was right there, all the time, finishing in the top five," said Mt. Blue coach Buzz Davis. "Consistency wise, he is really good and is a threat in any race."

Ramsey's early skiing experiences with his family helped him develop into a topnotch racer.

"The whole family would go out skiing," said Ramsey. "It was fun. We always had a good time."

Ramsey enjoys his practice sessions at Titcomb Mountain along with the thrills of competing. On occasion, Ramsey and several teammates will hike the mountain in their Nordic skis, for conditioning purposes, then come roaring down the slopes in Bode Miller fashion, ready to hit the Nordic trails.

As a freshman, Ramsey managed to climb into the top 10 for most races, while he learned the techniques that would help him work his way into the elite group of skiers. Always watchful and willing to learn, Ramsey quickly developed his technique and skills.

"After last season, I wanted to get into the top few spots," said Ramsey. "I put in the extra work during practices."

He has seriously thought about his technical ability and what he can do to move as quickly as possible through courses. There is little doubt, Ramsey has devoted the time and energy to gain a better understanding of what he needs to become successful.

"The big thing I try to do is be smooth and easy," said Ramsey. "We all have our own style of skiing, so I think it is whatever feels best and makes you go fastest are the best techniques."

Davis enjoys watching Ramsey race and sees him as a bona fide challenger the next couple of years. The coach pointed to the sophomore's work ethic during practice and his improved stamina as crucial to his success.

"Welley has a lot of natural endurance," said Davis. "He works hard at it, has the technical skills and is gaining in experience."