December 27, 2009 (Anchorage, Alaska) – Last season’s 2009 U.S. Cross Country Ski National Championships in Anchorage, AK, almost became the no-race Championships, as frigid temperatures forced the cancellation and rescheduling of two of the four events. This year, however, the weather forecast looks more promising, with temperatures in the 20s (F) this week.

When events kick off on Saturday, Jan. 2 with the Freestyle Sprints, the forecast appears to be for great conditions. “Mostly sunny, with highs in the teens,” reports the National Weather Service. Trail conditions have been good so far, but the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage is leaving nothing to chance. There is a Shoveling Party today, 10am-2pm, on the Senior National race courses – “for insurance sake”.

Keep track of the temperatures in Anchorage, here.

The 2010 US XC Nats schedule and the final opportunity for American cross-country skiers to make the the US Olympic team is here.