SISU start delayed due to cold

IRONWOOD — The SISU Ski Fest has announced a 90-minute delay in the start of all Saturday cross country ski events, including the 31-kilometer SISU, the 15-k Heikki Lunta and the 5-k Hauska Hiihto Fun Ski.

Weather forecasts call for below zero temperatures on Saturday, with a warming trend forecast for the early morning.

With the 90-minute delay, temperatures are forecast to be around 5-below at the start of the 31k at 10:20 a.m., and 5 above by the end of all races at 3:30 p.m. Winds are forecast to be mild and from the south.

According to race organizers, “The trail conditions are great. We have ample snow and ABR has been grooming daily.”

Participants, volunteers and spectators are encouraged to take steps to minimize risks from exposure, including:

—Dress for the temperatures, particularly the hands, feet and head.

—Use hand and toe warmers.

—Cover all exposed skin.

—Protect eyes by wearing glasses, sunglasses, goggles or a wind/snow visor.

—Those with asthma or other breathing difficulties are encouraged to use a breathing apparatus and be sure to bring inhalers.

—Arrive hydrated and drink plenty of warm liquids at the aid stations.

—Pack warm, dry clothes and boots in a drop bag and get changed immediately after the race.

For those who are leery of the cold but have the SISU spirit and want to participate, the Hauska Hiihto 5-k Fun Ski will start at 1:30 p.m. For $30, participants will ski the last 5 kilometers of the race course in the warmest part of the day and receive 2018 SISU hats and pins, plus hot mojakka and pasties at the post-race party.

Registrations will continue to be accepted on-line until 10 tonight or in-person at the Race Expo today from 4 to 10 p.m. 5k Fun Ski registration continues until 11:30 a.m. Saturday.

For information or to register, go to sisuskifest.com.