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the future of Great American

early thoughts by NSSF on next year


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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