2026 Victorian Interschools Cross Country Championships
Ivanhoe’s Cross Country Ski team enjoyed a highly successful day on the slopes at Mt Buller on 2 August, competing in the Victorian Cross Country Interschools competition under some of the most challenging conditions seen in recent years.
Battling icy winds, low cloud and difficult racing conditions, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination and team spirit throughout the event. The 2026 season saw Ivanhoe field its largest Cross Country Ski team in recent history, with 18 students competing across both the Classic and Freestyle Relay events. From experienced skiers to first-time competitors, students embraced the challenge and supported one another throughout the day, with the Ivanhoe spirit on full display across all year levels.
The medals began to flow by day’s end, highlighted by an outstanding performance from Year 11 student James, who claimed bronze in the Individual Classic race during his very first cross-country skiing competition. The Division 2 boys teams also enjoyed impressive success, securing both silver and bronze medals by finishing second and third respectively in their Classic and Freestyle events.
Coached by Ivanhoe alumnus and Australian National Team member Seb Packer-Smith, the squad’s achievements were particularly impressive given that more than half of the team had never previously competed in cross country skiing. Through Seb’s expert preparation and the strong support of families throughout the season, students developed their skills and confidence, culminating in an outstanding collective performance.
Many individual athletes and relay teams have now qualified for the National Schools Championships at Perisher in September, where they will have the opportunity to compete against the country’s best young cross-country skiers.
