Interview With Bridget Burns
- deannafinchamp
- Jul 2
- 4 min read
After graduating high school in 2023, former Race Team member Bridget Burns is now attending Michigan Tech on an academic and athletic scholarship. She is competing as a dual-sport student athlete in both cross country and Nordic skiing, while studying Environmental Engineering.
Bridget’s Accolades: (4.00 GPA). National Honor Society, AP scholar with honor, WIAA Outstanding Scholastic Award all four years, President of LC’s environmental club, first chair French horn, student advisory council on climate change.
Nine varsity letters – Cross Country (4), Track and Field (4), Band (4). Cross country three-time first-team All-GSL and state qualifier; 2022 Academic State Champions; team captain; ninth at state junior year; Footlocker Regional qualifier ’19 and ’22. Ninth at state track in 3200, second-team All-GSL junior year. National Qualifier and Representative for the Pacific Northwest Ski Association in Nordic skiing all four years with 12th place finish at nationals.
Why did you pick Michigan Tech?
I originally discovered Michigan Tech through their successful Nordic skiing program. During the recruiting process, I talked to many different coaches, but got the best vibes from those at Tech. Eventually, I had the opportunity to take an “Official Visit” to the school where I got to meet Tom and Kristin Monahan Smith (the two Nordic coaches) in addition to the remainder of the ski team. My in-person visit confirmed that the MTU Huskies are truly special. Everyone was so kind, welcoming, and understanding, and the community felt like an immediate family. And that’s just the ski side of things! Besides the varsity Nordic ski team, Michigan Tech aligns with my academic interests. For many years I have been interested in STEM, and am so excited about the Environmental Engineering program! Furthermore, I love the smaller size of the town and the school. The location is beautiful and a skier’s dream! The Nordic trails are a two minute walk from campus, and you get fresh and fluffy snow all winter long.
What does it mean to be the first from Spokane to race at US Senior Nationals?
It’s an honor to be the first Spokane Nordic Race Team skier who has competed at US Senior Nationals, and it makes me proud to wear the Spokane Nordic suit. At massive championship events like nationals, there is tons of talent. Senior Nationals was a great experience for me, and it was fun to race against an incredibly strong, deep, and competitive field. Among many club teams, there were collegiate and professional athletes in addition to a few Olympians in the mix!
What do you want to do when your skiing career ends?
When my competitive ski racing career eventually comes to an end, I want to continue my active lifestyle. I know that Nordic skiing will be a part of me forever, and it would be a dream come true to become a coach someday, giving back to the community that has given me so much. Also, people like Art Bookstrom inspire me, as I wish to continue Nordic skiing for years and years to come. In terms of a career, I plan to major in environmental engineering at Michigan Tech with the hope of perusing a job in this field. One of my lifelong goals is to help combat climate change so that posterity can enjoy the beauty of winter and Nordic skiing.
How have the SNSA team and coaches influenced your career? What’s your favorite part about being on the Nordic ski team?
I am beyond thankful for everything my ski coaches taught me. I’ve learned a lot, and my Nordic accomplishments are a direct testament to their support. Over the years, I have traveled, trained, and lived with other teams, and these experiences have made me appreciate Spokane Nordic. Our team is one-of-a-kind. Everyone is exceptionally supportive, and Spokane skiers are the epitome of quality people. In the future, I hope the race team continues to thrive, for it is a fabulous program that educates and unites the next generation of athletes.
What is it about Nordic skiing that appeals most to you?
My Nordic skiing journey began with the Nordic kids program, which fostered my love for winter, snow, and the outdoors. Fast-forward 12 years and I love this sport more than ever. I can’t wait to compete at the collegiate level. Nordic skiing is the best way to enjoy Spokane’s winter months (in my totally biased opinion). Clicking on a pair of skis correlates to freedom. And with competing comes exploration and traveling to these gorgeous venues all across North America. Skiing has broadened my horizons, introducing me to lifelong friends as well as a tight-knit and passionate community. Our sport is challenging, but it has taught me how to be tough and resilient.
Lastly, here’s a final thought that I would like to add: advice for up-and-coming athletes looking to pursue Nordic skiing (especially at a competitive level)
Stick with it
Nordic skiing is a sport that takes years to perfect, and the more time you spend on skis, the better you’ll get. Technique improvement is one of the best ways to enhance your skiing, and this process takes time, patience, and practice.
Have fun
Why bother if you are not enjoying yourself out there?
Surround yourself with those who will make you better.
Whether it’s skiing behind one of the older race team kids or learning how to wax, Spokane Nordic is so lucky to have a knowledgeable community that is more than willing to help you out!
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