I thoroughly enjoyed the USATF Cross Country Championship races this past weekend, watching every race, from the community 4k through the final men's open race. The general venue was interesting, the course layout challenging, and the weather spectacular considering the time of year. The competitors were inspiring and more than a few outstanding performances put on for spectators.
I felt the event was competently put on by Montgomery County Road Runners Club in cooperation with USATF, however it did have more of a club event feel to it rather than what one might expect at a National Championship event. Sort of like you would get at a race where the most notable entrants would be the local speedsters from your city or county. I hope the competitors did not feel the same way! (An earlier post mentioned the event being a bit "weak"...maybe this is what they were referring to?)
Spectators were treated to a first row view around almost the entire course, even at the finish line in many cases, as the crowd appeared to be fairly thin. Especially considering the very large and active local running community, and with several major metropolitan areas in close proximity.
Regardless, it was a good day of racing with mud, grass, and corn cob debris flying all around. A little blood and mud on your legs lets you know it wasn't just a jog in the park. And I have a memory card full of great race pics to download too!