It’s not too late to register for the sixth annual Liberal Cup Biathlon at Hidden Valley Nature Center Sunday, Jan. 29. Midcoast Conservancy will host this fun-filled day of skiing, shooting targets with air rifles and enjoying a winter day around a bonfire. Skiers of all abilities are encouraged to register, either individually or as teams, and in-costume is even better! Snowshoers are welcome. The spirit of the event is friendly competition and a celebration of outdoor sports in a beautiful natural setting.

The course, which will be determined just before race day to include the snowiest terrain, will take skiers through some of HVNC’s 30 miles of trails. After each of two loops, racers will shoot, then ski one last stretch to the finish. All air rifles are provided by the Southern Maine Biathlon club, and each racer will receive safety training on how to use the rifle.

Race categories are based on self-selected skill levels, and there are special categories for youth racers and snowshoe racers. Awards will be given out for best costume, best team name, and for youth and high school aged participants. Awards include gift certificates for overnight stays at HVNC huts. The majority of skiers are in the novice to intermediate range, so don’t be intimidated by the race: fun and silly are the themes for the day!

Races will begin about 9 a.m.; all day long there will be bonfires, great food, and something on tap from Liberal Cup Brewery. The Biathlon will be held regardless of the weather. To register, go to midcoastconservancy.org and click on the event posting on the right side of the page. Questions: (207) 389-5150.