PALMER, ALASKA – Peter Hinds skied himself into a qualifying position to the NCAA National Championships after finishing 10^th to the lead the University of Alaska Anchorage ski team at the NCAA West Regional Championships Saturday.

Hinds placed a team-best 10^th in the men's 20-kilometer classic race in a time of 58:58.

"It was so exciting to watch Peter race himself into position to qualify for the NCAA National Championships," said associate head coach Trond Flagstad. "We had a great week of racing, both Nordic and Alpine, especially in front of our home fans. We are really hitting our stride, and I am excited to see what we do at the NCAA National Championships."

Teammate Magnus Noroey was two seconds behind Hinds in 12^th.

Ari Endestad and Sigurd Roenning finished 24^th (1:01:30) and 25th (1:01:31), while Matt Seline finished 32^nd (1:05:06).

Astrid Stav was the top Seawolf in the women's race finishing 13^th (1:08:40).

Tuva Bygrave finished 20^th (1:10:36), and Pascale Paradis was 22^nd (1:11:44).

The Seawolves finished fourth of nine teams.

Andreas Kirking of Denver won the men's race (58:15), and Novie McCabe of Utah won the women's (1:04:09).

UAA will compete at the NCAA National Championships in Lake Placid, NY March 8-11.