(12-23-09) From Press Release - USA Cycling today announced that it has awarded the 2009 and 2010 Cyclo-cross National Championships to Bend. The announcement comes on the heels of a recent site inspection and city tour by USA Cycling's national events manager Tom Vinson, and is the culmination of a yearlong effort led by Visit Bend and the Oregon Sports Authority to bring the event to Bend.
"While all of the bids received by USA Cycling to host this event were very impressive, Bend's competition venue, community wide support and commitment to producing a World-class event convinced us that Bend would be a very worthy host city for the 2009 and 2010 USA Cycling Cyclo-cross National Championships," said Tom Vinson, National Events Manager for USA Cycling.
In recent years, the Cyclo-cross National Championships have been held in Portland, Ore. (2003 & 2004), Providence, Rhode Island (2005 & 2006), and Kansas City, Missouri (2007 & 2008).
With 35 national titles on the line, the Cyclo-cross National Championships are expected to attract more than 2,000 competitors to Bend each year for four days of racing, and between 3,500 and 4,500 visitors including support staff, families and media. Because the championships are held during the second week in December - a traditionally slow tourism period that falls between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays when occupancy levels at Bend lodging properties are well below 40 percent - the event is expected to provide a significant boost for the local economy.
Tentative dates for the Cyclo-cross National Championships in Bend are December 10-13, 2009, and December 9-12, 2010. With the US Grand Prix of Cyclo-cross being held in Portland the week prior, a large field of competitors is anticipated.
"Hosting the Cyclo-cross National Championships in Bend is an incredibly exciting opportunity for the community," said Doug LaPlaca, president and CEO of Visit Bend and co-chair of the local organizing committee. "Winning this competitive bid process was truly a community-wide effort and is strong testimony of what we can accomplish when the community comes together to support a cause."
Nationally-renown cyclo-cross race director Brad Ross, owner of Vivo Promotions and producer of the Cross Crusade race series in Portland - the largest cyclo-cross series in the country - will serve as race director for the National Championships. Ross previously managed the Cyclo-cross National Championships when they were held in Portland in 2003 and 2004.
"The awarding of the Cyclo-cross National Championships is a shining example of Bend's ability to host big-time sports events," said Drew Mahalic CEO of the Oregon Sports Authority. "We feel privileged to have worked closely with Visit Bend and all involved in bringing this outstanding national championship and its substantial economic impact to Bend."
Portland's Kara Goucher to Run Boston in 2009
(12-16-08) From Press Release - In its 24th year as the principal sponsor of the Boston Marathon, John Hancock Financial today announced the signing of Olympian and World Championship bronze medalist Kara Goucher for the 113th running of the race on April 20, 2009.
Internationally accomplished on the track, Goucher's debut in the marathon this past November fulfilled all expectations. Her 2:25:53 third place performance in New York City, set a number of American women's marathon records: the fastest debut ever, the fastest time ever run on the course, and the fastest time of 2008. With those credentials, Goucher is poised for a top finish in Boston, where the last American winner was Lisa Larsen-Weidenbach in 1985, and before her Joan Benoit in 1983.
"I could not be more excited to participate in the 2009 Boston Marathon on the John Hancock Elite Team," said Goucher. "As an American, Boston is an incredible opportunity to run a Major Marathon. The race has a history like no other and it's legacy spans generations. I am so thankful to continue my journey toward my goal of becoming the best runner in the world here in the United States."
With Boston champion Alberto Salazar as her coach, Goucher is certain to learn how to manage the difficult course, as did Salazar in his famous 1982 course-record duel with Dick Beardsley.
"Coach Salazar will guide me to be ready to tackle the course, and the infamous Heartbreak Hill," added Goucher. "Winning Boston is my next big challenge, and I could not have picked a bigger stage."
The 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials winner in the 5,000m and runner up in the 10,000m, Goucher went to the Beijing Olympic Games and in one of the hardest doubles on the track, finished ninth in the 5,000m and 10th in the 10,000m (30:55.16). At the 2007 IAAF World Outdoor Championships, she won the bronze medal in the 10,000m, becoming the first American to ever medal in that event. On the roads, in her first half marathon, Goucher handed world marathon record holder Paula Radcliffe of Great Britain a rare defeat by winning the 2007 Great North Run in 1:06:57, one of the fastest times in the world.
"Kara Goucher will add a new level of excitement to the 2009 Boston Marathon. Not only is she a dynamic competitor but her coach, Alberto Salazar, knows all about winning in Boston," said Executive Director Guy Morse, of the Boston Athletic Association. "With Kara joining Ryan Hall on the John Hancock Elite Team, the 113th Boston Marathon will feature not only two of America's finest athletes but two of our sport's top young stars. We look forward to seeing them compete alongside the best marathon runners from around the world."
A 2001 University of Colorado graduate and seven-time All American, the 30-year old Goucher grew up in Duluth, Minnesota. Married to professional runner and Olympian Adam Goucher for the past seven years, the couple trains with the Nike Oregon Project and resides in Portland, Oregon. The Gouchers continue to help support and promote running on the national youth level.
About John Hancock Financial and Manulife Financial Corporation
John Hancock Financial is a unit of Manulife Financial Corporation (the Company), a leading Canadian-based financial services group serving millions of customers in 19 countries and territories worldwide. Operating as Manulife Financial in Canada and in most of Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, the Company offers clients a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners. Funds under management by Manulife Financial and its subsidiaries were Cdn$385.3 billion (US$363.5 billion) as at September 30, 2007.
Manulife Financial Corporation trades as 'MFC' on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under '0945' on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.
The John Hancock unit, through its insurance companies, comprises one of the largest life insurers in the United States. John Hancock offers a broad range of financial products and services, including life insurance, fixed and variable annuities, fixed products, mutual funds, 401(k) plans, long-term care insurance, college savings, and other forms of business insurance. Additional information about John Hancock may be found at www.johnhancock.com.
Internationally accomplished on the track, Goucher's debut in the marathon this past November fulfilled all expectations. Her 2:25:53 third place performance in New York City, set a number of American women's marathon records: the fastest debut ever, the fastest time ever run on the course, and the fastest time of 2008. With those credentials, Goucher is poised for a top finish in Boston, where the last American winner was Lisa Larsen-Weidenbach in 1985, and before her Joan Benoit in 1983.
"I could not be more excited to participate in the 2009 Boston Marathon on the John Hancock Elite Team," said Goucher. "As an American, Boston is an incredible opportunity to run a Major Marathon. The race has a history like no other and it's legacy spans generations. I am so thankful to continue my journey toward my goal of becoming the best runner in the world here in the United States."
With Boston champion Alberto Salazar as her coach, Goucher is certain to learn how to manage the difficult course, as did Salazar in his famous 1982 course-record duel with Dick Beardsley.
"Coach Salazar will guide me to be ready to tackle the course, and the infamous Heartbreak Hill," added Goucher. "Winning Boston is my next big challenge, and I could not have picked a bigger stage."
The 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials winner in the 5,000m and runner up in the 10,000m, Goucher went to the Beijing Olympic Games and in one of the hardest doubles on the track, finished ninth in the 5,000m and 10th in the 10,000m (30:55.16). At the 2007 IAAF World Outdoor Championships, she won the bronze medal in the 10,000m, becoming the first American to ever medal in that event. On the roads, in her first half marathon, Goucher handed world marathon record holder Paula Radcliffe of Great Britain a rare defeat by winning the 2007 Great North Run in 1:06:57, one of the fastest times in the world.
"Kara Goucher will add a new level of excitement to the 2009 Boston Marathon. Not only is she a dynamic competitor but her coach, Alberto Salazar, knows all about winning in Boston," said Executive Director Guy Morse, of the Boston Athletic Association. "With Kara joining Ryan Hall on the John Hancock Elite Team, the 113th Boston Marathon will feature not only two of America's finest athletes but two of our sport's top young stars. We look forward to seeing them compete alongside the best marathon runners from around the world."
A 2001 University of Colorado graduate and seven-time All American, the 30-year old Goucher grew up in Duluth, Minnesota. Married to professional runner and Olympian Adam Goucher for the past seven years, the couple trains with the Nike Oregon Project and resides in Portland, Oregon. The Gouchers continue to help support and promote running on the national youth level.
About John Hancock Financial and Manulife Financial Corporation
John Hancock Financial is a unit of Manulife Financial Corporation (the Company), a leading Canadian-based financial services group serving millions of customers in 19 countries and territories worldwide. Operating as Manulife Financial in Canada and in most of Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, the Company offers clients a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners. Funds under management by Manulife Financial and its subsidiaries were Cdn$385.3 billion (US$363.5 billion) as at September 30, 2007.
Manulife Financial Corporation trades as 'MFC' on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under '0945' on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.
The John Hancock unit, through its insurance companies, comprises one of the largest life insurers in the United States. John Hancock offers a broad range of financial products and services, including life insurance, fixed and variable annuities, fixed products, mutual funds, 401(k) plans, long-term care insurance, college savings, and other forms of business insurance. Additional information about John Hancock may be found at www.johnhancock.com.
Gift Ideas and Holiday Sale Presented by AA Sports
(12-10-08) From Press Release - AA Sports' annual triathlon and running Holiday Sale is Saturday, December 13. We will be partnering with Athletes Lounge, Fit Right NW and others to blow out merchandise and provide free samples just in time to fill holiday stockings! GIFT CERTIFICATES (available for purchase ONLINE) with discounts for AA Sports owned events and TRI NorthWest memberships will also be available to purchase.
Look for 50% off retail on new merchandise and liquidation of used equipment. The AA Sports lost and found closet will be open with $10 helmets, $50 wet suits, $20 running shirts, $22 triathlon shorts, $1 running gloves & much more.
Blow Out Sale
Saturday, December 13
9:00am - 1:00pm
NEW Athletes Lounge Store
2600 NW Vaughn
Portland, OR 97210
The new store is located Northwest Portland, on the southwest corner of 26th and Vaughn with parking located right behind the store.
Look for 50% off retail on new merchandise and liquidation of used equipment. The AA Sports lost and found closet will be open with $10 helmets, $50 wet suits, $20 running shirts, $22 triathlon shorts, $1 running gloves & much more.
Blow Out Sale
Saturday, December 13
9:00am - 1:00pm
NEW Athletes Lounge Store
2600 NW Vaughn
Portland, OR 97210
The new store is located Northwest Portland, on the southwest corner of 26th and Vaughn with parking located right behind the store.
Three Pacific NW Races Selected to be USA Trail Running Championships in 2009
(12-9-08) The Mountain, Ultra & Trail (MUT) Running Sport Council has selected three Pacific Northwest races to be 2009 USA Trail Running Championships.
These selections recognize the hard work by several local race directors and are an acknowledgment by USATF of the rich trail racing heritage present in Oregon and Washington.
First run in 1993, the White River 50 Mile (Crystal Mountain, WA) will be the 2009 USA 50 Mile Trail Running Championships. Featuring 17,400 feet of total climb and descent, this race is an epic challenge for even the most experienced trail runner. The 2009 race will take place on July 25 and is organized by Scott McCoubery; owner of the Seattle Running Company and winner of the USATF MUT Council's Contributor of the Year award. There will be $7500 in prize money awarded to the top runners of this race.
The Where's Waldo 100k (Willamette Pass, OR) started in 2002 as a low key event organized by Curt Ringstad and Craig Thornley. This race is on 97% single-track trail and features a one lap course that climbs and descends 11,000 feet. The 2009 event is on August 22 and will be the USA 100k Trail Championships with $3000 in prize money up for grabs.
Last but certainly not least is the newest race among this championship trio - the Lithia Loop Trail Marathon. The inaugural race took place this past November and was organized by ultra running phenom Hal Koerner. Hal and his crew at Rogue Valley Runners set up a great course that starts and ends in Downtown Ashland, OR climbing 4700' into the Siskiyou National Forest. The 2009 race will be the USA Trail Marathon Championships for open and master runners.
For the latest information about these and other USA Track & Field Mountain, Ultra and Trail National Championships go to: http://usatforegonmut.blogspot.com/
These selections recognize the hard work by several local race directors and are an acknowledgment by USATF of the rich trail racing heritage present in Oregon and Washington.
First run in 1993, the White River 50 Mile (Crystal Mountain, WA) will be the 2009 USA 50 Mile Trail Running Championships. Featuring 17,400 feet of total climb and descent, this race is an epic challenge for even the most experienced trail runner. The 2009 race will take place on July 25 and is organized by Scott McCoubery; owner of the Seattle Running Company and winner of the USATF MUT Council's Contributor of the Year award. There will be $7500 in prize money awarded to the top runners of this race.
The Where's Waldo 100k (Willamette Pass, OR) started in 2002 as a low key event organized by Curt Ringstad and Craig Thornley. This race is on 97% single-track trail and features a one lap course that climbs and descends 11,000 feet. The 2009 event is on August 22 and will be the USA 100k Trail Championships with $3000 in prize money up for grabs.
Last but certainly not least is the newest race among this championship trio - the Lithia Loop Trail Marathon. The inaugural race took place this past November and was organized by ultra running phenom Hal Koerner. Hal and his crew at Rogue Valley Runners set up a great course that starts and ends in Downtown Ashland, OR climbing 4700' into the Siskiyou National Forest. The 2009 race will be the USA Trail Marathon Championships for open and master runners.
For the latest information about these and other USA Track & Field Mountain, Ultra and Trail National Championships go to: http://usatforegonmut.blogspot.com/
Oregon Runners Dominate XTERRA Trail Running World Championship
(12-8-08) From Press Release - Max King, 28, from Bend, Oregon and Cynthia Anderson, 25, from Kailua, Hawaii won the inaugural XTERRA Trail Running World Championship half-marathon at Kualoa Ranch this morning.
More than 800 runners from 32 states and eight countries participated in the 5, 10, and 21km events.
Near perfect running conditions with cool breezes, cloud cover, and temperatures in the mid-70's greeted runners for the 13.1 mile championship race that featured 3,000 feet of elevation gain while weaving up-and-down the verdant cliff faces in Ka'a'awa Valley and into the dense rainforest of Hakipu `u Valley at Kualoa Ranch.
King, a member of the Team USA cross country squad and the reigning XTERRA Trail Running USA Champ, led from start-to-finish and was the only runner to post sub 6-minute miles for a winning time of 1:18:23. Ben Bruce of Eugene, Oregon finished more than three minutes back in second place at 1:21:55, and Thomas Taylor of Phoenix, Arizona placed third in 1:29:33. Honolulu's Matt Stevens was the top local finisher just 17 seconds later.
"Ben (Bruce) is as good a runner as I am, and I am always afraid of him" said Max. "This race was a lot tougher than Nationals. The last 5 kilometers were definitely the most challenging. I just didn't want to do anymore hills. This was an awesome event."
His first time in Hawaii, Bruce said this terrain, and the course's elevation gain was quite different than what he is used to. "There was more climbing in the first two miles of this race than the entire Nationals race combined."
In the women's race Anderson, a former cross country and track stand-out at the University of Rhode Island, was in a tight duel with Canadian Danelle Kabush the entire way. Kabush, the race favorite, had the lead until about mile seven when Anderson passed on a steep uphill. Kabush stayed close the rest of the way and was right on Anderson's heel for much of the final six miles but ultimately finished 32 seconds back with a time of 1:40:10. Anderson's winning time was 1:39:38.
"Danelle and I were together most of the race especially when we were skating down the large ridge. She really kept me in the race," said Anderson, a research assistant for the University of Hawaii.
"Cynthia is tough" said Kabush after the race. "She was a great runner and the course was beautiful. I just wish I had been able to focus on the scenery more while I was running."
"The trails were nuts" according to Richard Burgunder of Astoria, NY. "I took a bad spill out there, but the course was even more amazing that I expected, especially the upper ridge section. I loved it, but it was really challenging."
Winner of the men's 55-59 division Francisco Rodriguez, of Bayonne, NJ, has a running resume that includes completing 157 marathons, at least one in every state. He is now working on a half-marathon in every state and chose the XTERRA Trail Run Worlds as his stop for Hawaii. "I obviously run a lot, but this was my first trail run. It was a tough course, but I definitely want to come back next year."
At just 12-years-old, Dakota Grossman of Pukalani, Hawaii finished the half-marathon test of endurance in just 2:01:05. The 5km winner at the XTERRA Makena Beach Trail Run back in October said "The course was a lot different from Maui. I had a lot of fun."
Ages for the 21km race spanned from 11-year old Mililani local Jakob DeWald to 74-year old George Taylor of Kelowna, British Columbia who said winning his age group "really made his day."
In the 10km race, it was Leo Rosenberg, 19, of Manhattan, KS who was crowned the men's winner with his time of 47:08, just 38 seconds ahead of Honolulu's Kevin Weng, 37. Jenny Selan, 27, made her hometown of Honolulu proud winning the women's race in 50:45, over 2 minutes ahead of Pearl City's Liz Ford.
A nurse at Kapiolani Medical Center, Selan is usually on the triathlon circuit but decided to come out today and run with a friend. "Hawaii has some pretty steep hills, and they made the course great."
Pierce Murphy, 15, of Hanalei, Hawaii and Brigid O'Connell, 26, of Honolulu took home the gold medals in the 5km men's and women's 5km division with their times of 19:19 and 29:23 respectively.
Not even knowing she won at first, Brigid said this was her very first running competition. "I had a lot of fun. I am used to running on the road, so this was very cool and different for me."
The XTERRA Trail Running World Championship was a benefit for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation - Hawaii Chapter. $10 from every entry went directly to the JDRF to help with their goal of finding a cure for type-1 diabetes. The organization helps tons of kids like 14-year old Devin Rettke, who must check his insulin level several times a day. After competing in the 10km event today, Devin said "The course was really fun, but that first hill was really tough. I usually do multi-sport events, but after this I am definitely going to start doing more trail running."
Today's event would not have been possible without the help of Kualoa Ranch and its President, John Morgan, who even competed in the 5km event. "The event turned out very well, and everyone had a great time. We were glad to be a part of it."
The race was filmed for a segment in the nationally syndicated XTERRA Adventures TV show and featured a $10,000 prize purse paid down to the top seven men and women. Highlights will be up soon at XTERRA.tv. Find complete results at xterratrailrun.com
| TOP 7 MEN | |||||
| Pl | Name | Age | Hometown | Time | Purse |
| 1 | Max King | 28 | Bend, Oregon | 1:18:23 | $2,000 |
| 2 | Ben Bruce | 26 | Eugene, Oregon | 1:21:55 | $1,000 |
| 3 | Thomas Taylor | 33 | Phoenix, Arizona | 1:29:33 | $750 |
| 4 | Matt Stevens | 30 | Honolulu, Hawaii | 1:29:50 | $500 |
| 5 | Jimmy Davis | 31 | Honolulu, Hawaii | 1:31:53 | $300 |
| 6 | Mark Speck | 38 | Honolulu, Hawaii | 1:34:28 | $250 |
| 7 | Mark Mench | 33 | Kailua, Hawaii | 1:37:19 | $200 |
| TOP 7 WOMEN | |||||
| Pl | Name | Age | Hometown | Time | Purse |
| 1 | Cynthia Anderson | 25 | Kailua, Hawaii | 1:39:38 | $2,000 |
| 2 | Danelle Kabush | 33 | Calgary, Canada | 1:40:10 | $1,000 |
| 3 | Christina Castelanelli | 29 | Lodi, California | 1:47:16 | $750 |
| 4 | Heather Albert | 25 | Kaneohe, Hawaii | 1:51:30 | $500 |
| 5 | Jessica Tranchina | 31 | Honolulu, Hawaii | 1:53:03 | $300 |
| 6 | Shannon Cutting | 44 | Honolulu, Hawaii | 1:53:35 | $250 |
| 7 | Mary Castelanelli | 23 | Lodi, California | 1:55:30 | $200 |
2008 XTERRA TRAIL RUNNING WORLD CHAMPIONS (BY DIVISION)
| FEMALE | |||
| Division | Name | Hometown | Time |
| 10-14 | Dakota Grossman | Pukalani, HI | 2:01:05 |
| 15-19 | Hayley Ortman | Carlsbad, CA | 2:39:37 |
| 20-24 | Mary Castelanelli | Lodi, CA | 1:55:30 |
| 25-29 | Cynthia Anderson | Kailua, HI | 1:39:38 |
| 30-34 | Danelle Kabush | Calgary, Canada | 1:40:10 |
| 35-39 | Sarah Skimin | Kapolei, HI | 1:57:57 |
| 40-44 | Shannon Cutting | Honolulu, HI | 1:53:35 |
| 45-49 | Jodi Ruby | La Verne, CA | 1:59:10 |
| 50-54 | Judy Maguire | Idyllwild, CA | 1:58:25 |
| 55-59 | Lorenn Walker | Waialua, HI | 2:32:41 |
| 60-64 | Lee Saltonstall | Alpharetta, GA | 2:56:32 |
| MALE | |||
| Division | Name | Hometown | Time |
| 10-14 | Jakob Dewald | Mililani, HI | 2:02:46 |
| 15-19 | Adam Weaver | Mililani, HI | 1:56:30 |
| 20-24 | Michael Campbell | Haleiwa, HI | 1:51:04 |
| 25-29 | Max King | Bend, OR | 1:18:23 |
| 30-34 | Thomas Taylor | Phoenix, AZ | 1:29:33 |
| 35-39 | Mark Speck | Honolulu, HI | 1:34:28 |
| 40-44 | David Carlsson | Honolulu, HI | 1:46:36 |
| 45-49 | John Smith | Honolulu, HI | 1:46:06 |
| 50-54 | Ash Dustrow | Honolulu, HI | 1:44:30 |
| 55-59 | Francisco Rodriguez | Bayonne, NJ | 2:26:00 |
| 60-64 | Thomas Craven | Honolulu, HI | 2:16:41 |
| 65-69 | Peter Wood | La Jolla, CA | 2:08:15 |
| 70-74 | George Taylor | Kelowna, Canada | 3:20:49 |
| PC | Fouad Fattoumy | Honolulu, HI | 1:52:31 |
| *PC - Physically Challenged | |||
The XTERRA Trail Running World Championship was the final stop on the World Tour - a national and international series of 50+ trail races held in New Zealand, Italy, France, Switzerland, Japan and the U.S.
Champions Crowned at Nike Cross Nationals in Portland
(12-6-08) From Press Release - Nike today announced the winners of the Nike Cross Nationals (NXN), a competition crowning the fastest high school-aged cross country club teams and individuals in the United States.
Manlius XC Club from Manlius, New York, captured this year's girls' club team crown for a third time. The North Spokane XC Club from Spokane, Washington, took home the boys club team championship honors. Chelsey Sveinsson from Addison, Texas won the individual girl's title with a course record time of 17:26.9. Reed Connor from The Woodlands, Texas won the boy's title with a time of 15:13.6.
"This year Nike Cross Nationals added an individual championship to the event, making it a race experience unlike any other for youth cross country runners," said Amy White, Nike's vice president of U.S. Running. "We were founded by runners and it's a sport that is part of our DNA."
Individuals along with club teams competed at regional qualifying events across the country throughout November in the lead up to the Nike Cross Nationals championship to determine the country's top individual and club teams in the sport.
People across the country were able to tune in to the live webcast of the championship held at Portland Meadows in Portland, Oregon. The webcast, which is available on www.nikecrossnationals.com, features 2000 Olympian Adam Goucher with running broadcasters Toni Reavis and Rich Gonzalez in the booth, and five-time NCAA champion Chris Solinsky and 2008 Olympian Kara Goucher on the ground.
Nike elite athletes also represented teams from each region, providing support and insight throughout the weekend. 2008 Olympian Kara Goucher (Northwest), 2008 Olympian Abdi Abdirahman (Southwest), 2008 Olympian Matt Tegenkamp (Heartland), 2008 Olympian Dathan Ritzenhein (Midwest), 2008 Olympian Shalane Flanagan (Northeast), 2004 Olympian Alan Webb (Southeast), 2000 Olympian Adam Goucher (South), 2008 Olympian Bernard Lagat (New York) and 2008 Olympian Shannon Rowbury (California) all served as captains.
For more complete results and to view the webcast, visit www.nikecrossnationals.com.
Manlius XC Club from Manlius, New York, captured this year's girls' club team crown for a third time. The North Spokane XC Club from Spokane, Washington, took home the boys club team championship honors. Chelsey Sveinsson from Addison, Texas won the individual girl's title with a course record time of 17:26.9. Reed Connor from The Woodlands, Texas won the boy's title with a time of 15:13.6.
"This year Nike Cross Nationals added an individual championship to the event, making it a race experience unlike any other for youth cross country runners," said Amy White, Nike's vice president of U.S. Running. "We were founded by runners and it's a sport that is part of our DNA."
Individuals along with club teams competed at regional qualifying events across the country throughout November in the lead up to the Nike Cross Nationals championship to determine the country's top individual and club teams in the sport.
People across the country were able to tune in to the live webcast of the championship held at Portland Meadows in Portland, Oregon. The webcast, which is available on www.nikecrossnationals.com, features 2000 Olympian Adam Goucher with running broadcasters Toni Reavis and Rich Gonzalez in the booth, and five-time NCAA champion Chris Solinsky and 2008 Olympian Kara Goucher on the ground.
Nike elite athletes also represented teams from each region, providing support and insight throughout the weekend. 2008 Olympian Kara Goucher (Northwest), 2008 Olympian Abdi Abdirahman (Southwest), 2008 Olympian Matt Tegenkamp (Heartland), 2008 Olympian Dathan Ritzenhein (Midwest), 2008 Olympian Shalane Flanagan (Northeast), 2004 Olympian Alan Webb (Southeast), 2000 Olympian Adam Goucher (South), 2008 Olympian Bernard Lagat (New York) and 2008 Olympian Shannon Rowbury (California) all served as captains.
For more complete results and to view the webcast, visit www.nikecrossnationals.com.
Rupp leads Oregon to second consecutive NCAA Team Title
(11-24-08) From USATF Press Release - 2008 Olympian Galen Rupp (Portland, Ore.) out-dueled Samuel Chelanga of Liberty University to win his first NCAA individual title Monday at the NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships in Terre Haute, Ind. Running the 10 km course in 29:04, Rupp lead the University of Oregon to their second consecutive team title at the meet.
In cold, breezy conditions, Chelanga took the lead from the gun and led the field by five seconds at the mile, passing in 4:21. Rupp closed the gap and briefly ran alongside Chelanga, but the pair exchanged a few elbows before Chelanga surged to another five second lead. Rupp patiently made his way to rejoin Chelanga by 5 km.
Over the final loop of the course, Rupp was content to let Chelanga lead until the pair hit the final straight away. With about 400 meters to go, Rupp made his final push and pulled clear for the title.
"My coaches told me to sit back, be smart and stay focused," Rupp said. "It was going to come down to a sprint and I relaxed until I was ready to go. I was more patient than last year, and when I made my move it was decisive. With about 800m to go I heard someone say 'Remember last year,' and that helped me win."
On the women's side, Sally Kipyego of Texas Tech won her third consecutive individual title, running 19:29 over the women's 6 km course to become the winningest women's cross country runner in Division I history. Susan Kuijen of Florida State managed to stay within striking distance through half-way, but Kipyego easily pulled away for a six-second win. The University of Washington won the women's team title over Oregon with 79 points.
"It was cold and windy and the hardest of my three wins," Kipyego said. "I tried to stay positive and run my best race. It's an amazing feeling and a wonderful opportunity."
Adams State sweeps D-II Championships
Adams State College swept the national team titles while Scott Bauhs won the men's individual title Saturday at the NCAA Division II Men's Cross Country Championships at Cooper's Lake Campground in Slippery Rock, Pa.
2008 World XC team member Scott Bauhs of Chico State led the men's 10 km race from start to finish, cruising to the win in 30:23 with runner-up Aaron Braun of Adams State finishing 13 seconds back in 30:36. Bauhs is the Wildcats' first cross country national champion.
The Adams State men won over rival Western State by 21 points (67 points to 88) with Chico State (Calif.) finishing third with 120 points. Two-time defending champion Abilene Christian finished fourth with 128 points.
The Adams State women won their sixth straight and 14th overall NCAA Division II National title, finishing with 79 points, ahead of runner-up Grand Valley State (102) and third-place Western State (183).
Middlebury, Cortland win D-III titles
The SUNY Cortland men's cross country team won its first NCAA Division III title while the Middlebury College women's team picked up their fifth crown, outdistancing 32-team fields Saturday at the 2008 NCAA Division III Cross Country Championships at the L.S. Ayers Complex in Hanover, Ind.
Middlebury ended the race with 179 points, 59 points ahead of second-place Calvin (237). Williams (240), Wartburg (284) and Wisconsin-Eau Claire (310) rounded out the top five. SUNY Cortland won the men's title with 80 points, while North Central of Illinois was second with 115 points and Williams College finished third with 129 points.
Hamilton College's Peter Kosgei, the 2007 runner-up, won the men's individual title, covering the 8 km course in a season best 24:22.03. He is the first cross country national champion in school history. Willy Kaul of Wisconsin-Oshkosh took runner-up honors, finishing in 24:32.67, and Wartburg's Brian Chenoweth was third in 24:34.04.
Bethel junior Marie Borner brought home the women's individual title, finishing the 6 km race in 20:43.91, more than nine seconds ahead of her nearest competitor and more than a minute faster than her performance at the national meet a year ago in Northfield, Minn. Amherst's Elise Tropiano was second in 20:52.96 and Wisconsin-Oshkosh's Ayla Mitchell was third in 21:02.91.
For more information on the 2008 NCAA Cross Country Championships, visit www.ncaa.com.
Azusa Pacific, Malone win NAIA title
Azusa Pacific placed three runners in the top 10 to capture its first NAIA Women's Cross Country National Championship Saturday at Dr. Wayne E. Dannehl Cross Country Course in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Alissa McKaig of Indiana Tech captured the individual women's title after crossing the finish line in a meet record 16:41.4, breaking the old mark of 16:43 set by Emile Mondor of Simon Fraser (B.C.) in 2002. 2007 runner-up Jacky Kimwambok of Azusa Pacific was again second in 17:02.1 and Shorter's Justyna Mudy was third in 17:06.1.
Azusa Pacific senior Aron Rono won the men's individual race for the second straight year with a season-best 8 km time of 23:46, leading the Cougar men to their finest showing ever at the national meet, finishing second with 118 points. But it was #1 ranked Malone who successfully defended their title by winning the meet with 61 points, 57 points ahead of Azusa Pacific. Malone's Nikolaus Schweikert (24:03) finished second and Abednego Magut of Azusa Pacific was third in 24:31.3.
With its women's national championship and men's runner-up finish, Azusa Pacific won the NAIA team award for compiling the lowest combined score at 184 points (66 women, 118 men). Malone was second at 221 and Indiana Tech was third with 468.
In cold, breezy conditions, Chelanga took the lead from the gun and led the field by five seconds at the mile, passing in 4:21. Rupp closed the gap and briefly ran alongside Chelanga, but the pair exchanged a few elbows before Chelanga surged to another five second lead. Rupp patiently made his way to rejoin Chelanga by 5 km.
Over the final loop of the course, Rupp was content to let Chelanga lead until the pair hit the final straight away. With about 400 meters to go, Rupp made his final push and pulled clear for the title.
"My coaches told me to sit back, be smart and stay focused," Rupp said. "It was going to come down to a sprint and I relaxed until I was ready to go. I was more patient than last year, and when I made my move it was decisive. With about 800m to go I heard someone say 'Remember last year,' and that helped me win."
On the women's side, Sally Kipyego of Texas Tech won her third consecutive individual title, running 19:29 over the women's 6 km course to become the winningest women's cross country runner in Division I history. Susan Kuijen of Florida State managed to stay within striking distance through half-way, but Kipyego easily pulled away for a six-second win. The University of Washington won the women's team title over Oregon with 79 points.
"It was cold and windy and the hardest of my three wins," Kipyego said. "I tried to stay positive and run my best race. It's an amazing feeling and a wonderful opportunity."
Adams State sweeps D-II Championships
Adams State College swept the national team titles while Scott Bauhs won the men's individual title Saturday at the NCAA Division II Men's Cross Country Championships at Cooper's Lake Campground in Slippery Rock, Pa.
2008 World XC team member Scott Bauhs of Chico State led the men's 10 km race from start to finish, cruising to the win in 30:23 with runner-up Aaron Braun of Adams State finishing 13 seconds back in 30:36. Bauhs is the Wildcats' first cross country national champion.
The Adams State men won over rival Western State by 21 points (67 points to 88) with Chico State (Calif.) finishing third with 120 points. Two-time defending champion Abilene Christian finished fourth with 128 points.
The Adams State women won their sixth straight and 14th overall NCAA Division II National title, finishing with 79 points, ahead of runner-up Grand Valley State (102) and third-place Western State (183).
Middlebury, Cortland win D-III titles
The SUNY Cortland men's cross country team won its first NCAA Division III title while the Middlebury College women's team picked up their fifth crown, outdistancing 32-team fields Saturday at the 2008 NCAA Division III Cross Country Championships at the L.S. Ayers Complex in Hanover, Ind.
Middlebury ended the race with 179 points, 59 points ahead of second-place Calvin (237). Williams (240), Wartburg (284) and Wisconsin-Eau Claire (310) rounded out the top five. SUNY Cortland won the men's title with 80 points, while North Central of Illinois was second with 115 points and Williams College finished third with 129 points.
Hamilton College's Peter Kosgei, the 2007 runner-up, won the men's individual title, covering the 8 km course in a season best 24:22.03. He is the first cross country national champion in school history. Willy Kaul of Wisconsin-Oshkosh took runner-up honors, finishing in 24:32.67, and Wartburg's Brian Chenoweth was third in 24:34.04.
Bethel junior Marie Borner brought home the women's individual title, finishing the 6 km race in 20:43.91, more than nine seconds ahead of her nearest competitor and more than a minute faster than her performance at the national meet a year ago in Northfield, Minn. Amherst's Elise Tropiano was second in 20:52.96 and Wisconsin-Oshkosh's Ayla Mitchell was third in 21:02.91.
For more information on the 2008 NCAA Cross Country Championships, visit www.ncaa.com.
Azusa Pacific, Malone win NAIA title
Azusa Pacific placed three runners in the top 10 to capture its first NAIA Women's Cross Country National Championship Saturday at Dr. Wayne E. Dannehl Cross Country Course in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Alissa McKaig of Indiana Tech captured the individual women's title after crossing the finish line in a meet record 16:41.4, breaking the old mark of 16:43 set by Emile Mondor of Simon Fraser (B.C.) in 2002. 2007 runner-up Jacky Kimwambok of Azusa Pacific was again second in 17:02.1 and Shorter's Justyna Mudy was third in 17:06.1.
Azusa Pacific senior Aron Rono won the men's individual race for the second straight year with a season-best 8 km time of 23:46, leading the Cougar men to their finest showing ever at the national meet, finishing second with 118 points. But it was #1 ranked Malone who successfully defended their title by winning the meet with 61 points, 57 points ahead of Azusa Pacific. Malone's Nikolaus Schweikert (24:03) finished second and Abednego Magut of Azusa Pacific was third in 24:31.3.
With its women's national championship and men's runner-up finish, Azusa Pacific won the NAIA team award for compiling the lowest combined score at 184 points (66 women, 118 men). Malone was second at 221 and Indiana Tech was third with 468.
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