Rough Economy May Hit Noquemanon

One of the country’s largest cross-country ski races is about to enter its second decade in the U.P.

But not even the Noquemanon Ski Marathon is proving immune to the economic slump.

The 11th annual Noquemanon will be Saturday, January 24th.

Early registrations are done a bit from last year’s record turnout.

They have a little over 500 people entered so far.

On December 1st of last year, they had more than 600, but hopes are still very high.

Nicole DeWald of the Noquemanon Trail Network says with all the early snow we’ve had, Nordic season is shaping up to be much longer than usual and with much more interest.

The entire course is already covered in snow, and this is first time in years it’s happened this early.

2 years ago, it never happened at all.

8 kilometers are groomed already, and the rest will be done in plenty of time.

DeWald says volunteers are needed for race-related events starting Thursday, the 22nd.

If you want to help, she’s asking you to call 235-6861 or go online to noquemanon.com .