Welcome to all the hundreds of competitors in the 22nd annual Noquemanon Ski Marathon, which takes place this weekend.

Whether you come from far away or are a local participant, we wish you great luck as you take part in one of the key events of winter in Superiorland.

Conditions may be a bit warmer than usual and we know the welcome you all receive from the community should be warm as well.

Today there are children’s races of the Junior Noque, as well as a ski expo at the dome, where participants can check in.

Then Saturday brings the highly competitive classic and freestyle ski races that start in Ishpeming and other locations and all end at the Superior Dome in Marquette.

Sunday, Noquemanon participants will take a walk on the Wild Side — snowshoeing, snow biking and animoosh (skiing with dogs) racing.

The usual up-and-down temperatures in the area are setting up the course well, according to reports on the Noquemanon’s website, www.noquemanon.com.

“Course conditions overall continue to look pretty great,” an update posted Wednesday morning stated. “We aren’t quite sure about slush on the water crossings just yet, but the big snow over the weekend did push some water up on the ponds (last 7K).”

It goes on to cite a National Weather Service forecast specially made for the Noque expecting 2 to 4 inches of snow from Wednesday to early today, with possible flurries during the weekend. And temperatures in the low to mid 30s from today through Sunday with generally light winds.

The website also cites trail work continuing on the most remote portions of the course, removing downed and bent-over trees on the trails and preparing water crossings.

For those who want to help with this great endeavor, volunteers are still being sought with sign-up and information available on the website.

The beauty of the area will dazzle competitors while those watching will be in awe of the athletic ability of the participants.

All in all, Noque weekend is always a great one here in Superiorland. Thanks to those who work all year to make it happen.