The 2023 U.S. Freestyle Junior National Championships took place in Steamboat Springs, Colo., March 13-19, 2023.  This event typically includes the top skiers, ages 18 and under.  Bridger Ski Foundations freestyle team had nine athletes qualify for the event, with five athletes accepting the nomination and traveling to Colorado: On the men's side Oliver Lacey and Ian Tuttle and on the women's, Delaney English, Makayla Papke and Meg Papke.

This season was the first time in history of the sport of Freestyle to pivot to an age-group-based championships.  Events included U-15 men's and women’s moguls, U-17 men's and women’s moguls, U-19 men's and women’s moguls, as well as dual moguls.  Hundreds of athletes from around the country gathered at the championships, celebrating sport.    

“This was a great opportunity for our athletes to ski against the best in their age group from around the country,” said Mike Papke.  “For some athletes this was their first time on the national stage and for others it was a time to shine.” With the age-group-based championships, not only is it about celebrating the sport, but athletes get an even broader base exposure to a national level event.

BSF skiers had a strong week, with an impressive showing on the national stage (see results below).

Athletes from Junior Nationals can qualify for the U.S. National Championships in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, March 23-26, 2023.  Makayla Papke, who had 8th and 12th place finishes among U19 women, will make a quick turnaround and head east to New Hampshire, where regional athletes will compete head-to-head against members of US Freestyle Ski Team.  

U-15 female Moguls

9th Place Meg Papke

24th Delaney English

U-15 mens Moguls

Ian Tuttle- 16th place

Oliver Lacey- 18th place

U-19 female Moguls

Makayla Papke 12th place overall

Dual Moguls U-15 Females-

Meg Papke/Delaney English-  tied for 32nd

Dual Moguls U17/19 Men-

Oliver Lacey/Ian Tuttle- Tied for 16th

Dual Moguls U17/19 women-

Makayla Papke - 8th place