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Love for St. Cloud....

Wednesday, 06 April 2016 06:10

When the MTN Guys think about the the St. Cloud area's multisport scene, four things come immediately to mind: Pammy Stevens, teenage girls, the Apple Duathlon and "Minnesota Nice." Working from latter to former, let's break this down:

"Minnesota Nice" - There is a sense of community in St. Cloud's multi world that is, in our opinion, unrivaled in our state. The friendships are deep and abiding  and the vibe is supremely welcoming. Hang out with Pam and Daryl (photo L), Nikki, Cindy, Judy and Mike, Adam and Raechel, Cheri, Kathy, Andy Z et al for five minutes and you'll know what we're talking about. They are truly lovely folks.

"Apple Duathlon" - Started during Woodrow Wilson's second term, The Apple, which is produced and executed by many of the people mentioned above, is simply, in our humble opinion, the best duathlon in America....

"Teenage Girls" - Don't freak out. We're not being creepy here. Historically, the St. Cloud area has produced outstanding junior girl tri/du-athletes.The Danielsons, Greta and Paige, have three JOY trophies between them, and Lauren Steinke had two JOY nominations by the time she was 15. Talented teens.

"Pammy Stevens" - Pam is the St. Cloud area's first tri/du star, and it's all-time most decorated multisporter. She's a former AG national champ and has medaled at worlds at least twice. She's won four MMAs and is a perennial nominee.

Other than Pam (2000), St. Cloud athletes have yet to earn a spot on Team MInnesota. That should change soon, perhaps even this year. Larry Hosch is a former ROY nominee and two-time Most Improved candidate. His Team Minnesota rank in 2015 was 12th. Larry's the real deal and we believe a team berth is in his near future.

Then there's rising star Wade Cruser. He just missed earning an MI nomination in '15. We predict a bright future for him.