The Carlisle Cross Country Invitational began in 1993 at urging of a group of coaches who were unhappy with an existing invitational. In twelve years, the invitational has developed into a competitive invitational now featuring 65 schools, four varsity races and 2 JV races with about 1700 runners competing. (None of the out of state schools were allowed to enter because it falls, for the 2nd year in a row, on a Jewish Holiday)
The Reebok Challenge races are smaller but very competitive featuring top teams. These races will include top individuals from teams who choose to enter the Champions Races but who want more intense competition for their top runner.
The Champions Races feature a larger field of schools of with teams from smaller schools or teams in a building or rebuilding phase.
Race Schedule: 9:30 Girls JV, 10:15 Boys JV, 10:45 Girls Reebok Challenge Race, 11:15, Girls Champions Race Boys Reebok Challenge Race, 11:45, 12:15 Boys Champions Race, 1:15 Awards
2004 race information:
-Races include 64 schools
-Boys race features 8- 2003 PIAA state finalist teams including Hatboro Horsham, the 3rd place AAA team in PA , Cedar Cliff-5th in PA, Coatesville-6th in PA, Cumberland Valley, 8th in PA, Carlisle, 9th in PA, Manheim Twp-13th in PA,, , Red Lion-14th in PA and Altoona-22ndh in PA
-Boys race also includes the PIAA state individual champion, Craig Miller from Manheim Twp and several medalists
-Girls race features 7, 2003 PIAA state finalist teams including, 2nd place- Chambersburg, 3rd place Parkland, 4th place-North Allegheny, 14th place-Cumberland Valley, 17th place Carlisle, 18th place State College and 19th place Governor Mifflin
-Girls race also includes many PIAA state individual medalists:
-co-sponsored by Reebok
Attending the race will be Reebok-sponsored runner:
Steve Jones- European Champion 10,000 meters and marathon, World Champion 10,000 meters and marathon, 2 time World Cross Country Champion, Olympic Medalist, former World Record Holder in marathon
Steve Jones will attend the Carlisle Meet of Champions, will sign autographs and will assist in Award Presentation