BOULDER — For someone who spent much of her childhood unable to see her kneecaps because of joint swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis, Jesse Knori has enjoyed a remarkable career as an athlete.
Knori, a senior nordic racer for the Colorado ski team, will “retire” after racing at the NCAA championships this week in New Hampshire because it wouldn’t be good for her damaged joints to continue training at the levels her sport demands. She will be missed, not only because of her talent but also for the inspiration she provided to teammates for her ability to cope with pain and family tragedy.