RUMFORD – “It’s a go!” That’s the word for today’s TD Banknorth Eastern Cup Nordic Classic Races at Black Mountain of Maine. Following the technical director’s course inspection after Saturday’s torrential rains, only two significant changes had to be made.

The first change was moving the location of the mass start to the Nordic Arena. The second was combining the the Bill Koch League J3 junior skiers with the J2 skiers on the 5K course.

The internationally-recognized volunteers of the Chisholm Ski Club are working to make sure any bare spots are adequately covered and that the course is drained of standing water. In the morning, the course will be groomed and tracks will be set.

Today’s weather at Black Mountain is predicted to be very windy with temperatures in the mid 20s and snow accumulating up to 3 inches during the day. This will make waxing for optimum kick a real challenge.

The entry field stands at 330 skiers, with over 140 entries scheduled for the Men’s 15K at 12:30 p.m. The total number of entrants makes this the largest Eastern Cup race in history.

Race times are as follows: J2 Girls’ 5K at 10:30 a.m; J2 Boys’ 5K at 11 a.m.; Women’s 10K at 11:30 a.m.; Men’s 15K at 12:30 p.m.