AUSTIN — For the first time in three years, the Dammen Nordic Ski Race will be, well, a ski race.

Last year, a lack of snow and excess ice prevented organizers from holding an event. The year before that, the race was held as a running event because of a lack of snow. This year, all signs point to skis and snow on the ground. The event begins with race-day registration and packet pick-up at 8 a.m. this Saturday. The children’s 1-mile race begins at 9 a.m., the 8-kilometer classic ski starts at 10 a.m., and the 13k freestyle ski starts at 11 a.m.

Saturday’s forecast calls for a high of 28 degrees and a very fitting, slight chance of snow, according to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, Wis. People have been using the trails this winter, according to Nature Center director Larry Dolphin. While the snow conditions may not be perfect, the organizers are just excited there will be a race.

“It’s just a fun competition to get people out, and we’re going to try to do the best we can with grooming the trails,” Dolphin said.