Release
from the National Scholastic Sports Foundation
9/30/02 -- The National Scholastic Sports Foundation (NSSF) wishes
to thank all the runners, coaches, parents and spectators for their
support of the 2002 Great American Cross Country Festival.�
As the meet management for the Nike Indoor Classic and the
adidas Outdoor Track&Field Championships, we appreciate the
sacrifices individuals make to compete at our events.�
The NSSF has always provided competitors with the highest
level of competitive opportunities coupled with great sites and
experiences.
Great American has set the standard for all other
cross-country events to follow and we fully intend to build upon
that reputation.� Over the
past weekend, we had the opportunity to speak with many athletes,
coaches and parents in order to get their feedback, ideas and future
support.� Of course, we were unable to speak with everyone
but these comments will form the basis of the NSSF�s ability to
offer exciting races and opportunities for future attendees.� We will be evaluating many items over the next
30 days in order to reach conclusions regarding site, dates, management
and organization.� It is our
intent to communicate these decisions quickly in order for you to
plan your 2003 cross-country calendar.�
In the interim, several issues
have been addressed and are reviewed below:
- There
will be a 2003 Great American Cross Country Festival.
- Nike
has committed to partner with the NSSF for future Great American
races.
- The
NSSF will not tighten entry standards and will actively
promote the event in order to grow the number of participants.
- It
is the intent of the NSSF to establish a permanent course
site for future Great American events.
- The
future vision of the NSSF with regards to course site selection
will be one that combines a challenging layout with the ability
to run fast.
- As
with all NSSF events, affordable housing plus in place transportation
systems and full access to the course prior to race day will be
present.
- Besides
the successful Pasta Dinner and Harriers Ball, plans are being
reviewed to create additional experiences for all attendees.
- Although
no one can ever control the weather, we will do our best to consider
that factor in course design and selection.
- Areas
such as concessions, safety, course marking/marshalling, medical
access, results reporting and parking will receive high priority.
Your support and the efforts of Richard Hill and
his staff have allowed the Great American Cross Country Festival
to establish itself as the premier team event of the season.�
The NSSF looks forward to your participation in the 2003
Festival and at all of our events.�
Please feel free to forward your thoughts and comments as
we strive to improve the 2003 Great American Cross Country Festival.
For further NSSF information, e-mail
Jim Spier ([email protected]), AJ Holzherr ([email protected]) or Joy Kamani ([email protected])
2002 Great American
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