Ross outduels namesake for GS victory Event closes U.S. Alpine Championships

CARRABASSETT VALLEY – Their names are almost identical and so were their results.

Lauren Ross of Stowe, Vt. beat Laurenne Ross of Klamath Falls, Ore., with a come-from-behind win in the women’s giant slalom as the U.S. Alpine Championships ended Wednesday in a steady snowfall.

Lauren Ross had been fifth after the first run, but charged through the second heat to finish in 2 minutes, 15.22 seconds for both runs and overtake Laurenne Ross. The first-run leader had a combined time of 2:15.31. Libby Ludlow finished third in 2:15.71.

Having two Rosses with similar first names at the top of the finish order was nothing new for either skier, who are not related.

“It’s always confusing for announcers and reporters,” said Laurenne Ross.

The race was close after the first run with six skiers separated by less than 0.4 seconds, with Lauren Ross fifth and Ludlow sixth.

“I was ticked off in the start (for the second run),” the new champion said. “I definitely had a little more fire.”

Laurenne Ross battled nerves as she waited to start the second run after the other 29 fastest skiers from the first run.

“I was nervous,” she said. “And I don’t usually do well in those situations. I didn’t choke. So I guess it was good.”