Great XCountry Will Not Be Contested Again

By Adam Kopet

International cross country was dealt a blow this week when it was announced the Great Run Company will not continue staging the Great Stirling XCountry International Challenge going forward, as reported by Athletics Weekly.

The event spent 14 years in Edinburgh as the Great Edinburgh XCountry International Challenge before moving to Stirling this past year. It was an event that attracted top cross country talent from the U.S. and Europe. In recent years, the U.S. has produced a number of event winners, including Hillary Bor this year.

The cancellation of the Great Stirling XCountry event was one of economics. The costs of hosting the event had grown in recent years and revenue had declined.

The event has been a regular fixture in January, attracting both seasoned professionals and elite high school runners. For many, it was the first opportunity to wear the Team USATF uniform.

The Great Run Company is also canceling the Great Stirling Run, a road running festival held separately.