Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Cross country's participation is up 16 percent in Ohio this decade and 18 percent nationwide during the same period, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The state meet has been held at Scioto Downs since the mid 1980s and annually draws 10,000-plus spectators. The season-ending event features six races, three each in boys and girls Division I, II and III.

"With the continued push towards leading healthier lifestyles and the ongoing fight against childhood obesity, cross country is a sport you will only see continue to grow in terms of participation," said OHSAA assistant commissioner Steve Neil.