WINTERSPORTS --

The Mount Spokane Nordic Cup and Junior National Qualifier will attract about 400 athletes, families and coaches from Pacific Northwest clubs to the state park’s cross-country trails with races running 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The USSA-sanctioned race based out of Selkirk Lodge have categories for men and women, kids to masters and seniors. Mass start and interval start racing will feature classic and freestyle techniques.

“This race will be the third and last opportunity for these regionals skiers to qualify for nationals,” said Mike Burns, race director and member of the hosting Spokane Nordic Ski Association. “Qualifying Cross Country skiers will join the Pacific Northwest junior national team to compete at the national championships in Lake Placid, New York, March 3-11.”

Brett Ford, winner of the 2017 Spokane Langlauf on Sunday, will be a local favorite, Burns said. He will be competing with about 140 teens from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana vying for 32 spots, OR, ID, MT, vying for 32 spots to make the regional team to nationals.