Ski racing: you don't need a special race suit and you don't need to be super fast or even super skilled on skis. But it these local races are a great way to challenge yourself, get together with a community of skiers, and share the winter spirit. Here are a few events to try out this season. All ages and abilities welcome.

Saturday, January 8 - FUNSKI Bozeman Creek Hill Climb Classic

9 a.m. at Sourdough - 3.5km or 6.5 km uphill classic race in Sourdough. (Starts at 1-mile marker). ($5 for 18 & under; $15 for adults)

Wednesday, January 19 - FUNSKI Lindley  Loppet

5 p.m. at Sunset Hills- 3 distances to choose from.  Retro costumes encouraged! ($5 for 18 & under; $15 for adults) *NOTE: This was just changed to SKATE ski race.

Saturday, January 22 - 1st Annual Ski For Soren

11 a.m. at Crosscut - 5k, 10k, & 20k freestyle races in memory of Soren Hartnett, a young BSF & Crosscut skier. ($10 for 10 & under; $25 for ages 11-79; $10 for ages 80+)

Saturday, February 5 - Homestake Hustle

Homestake Lodge near Butte - 3k, 5k, 10k skate races

Saturday, February 12 - Sacajawea Classic

9 a.m. at Crosscut - 30k, 15k, 5k and a free kids' race. ($30-$100 entry fee)

Wednesday, February 16 - FUNSKI Valentine's Relay

5 p.m. at Sunset Hills- 2-person relays (each skier will ski a 1-km lap twice). Skate skis suggested, but both skate and classic are fine! Costumes highly encouraged. ($5 for 18 & under; $15 for adults)

Saturday, March 5 - Rendezvous Races

West Yellowstone - 15k, 30k, 45k (both skate and classic categories)