Cross country running may conjure up horrible images from your days at school when you were sent on a cross country run for a punishment or asked to run around the field. Running for a club is different.
There is a great amount of friendship and a lot less pressure than running on the track. Times don't matter as every course is different and even if you finish 292nd as Paula Radcliffe did as a junior your position still counts as cross country is always a team event. There is often more of a rivalry in cross country as you are usually trying to beat someone who was close in a previous meeting and you gauge your performance against fellow competitors rather than times. You also get the opportunity to get muddy, run through streams, race up hills and see some wonderful countryside.
Races start from your 9th birthday and go up to senior athletes in their 70's.

A few tips for all cross country athletes and parents:

You must wear a club vest or you will be disqualified. Vests can be purchased from Chris at the desk in the clubhouse on training nights. Don't leave it to the last minute to buy one.

• You will need to bring at least 4 safety pins to put your number on your vest. Keep a box of pins in your bag as you will always need them.
• It would be better if you had running spikes with longer spikes in them, about 9mm
• Some athletes prefer to race in fell shoes / studs rather than spikes. Walsh are an excellent shoe.
• Bring a carrier bag to keep your dirty shoes in after the race. It saves you messing up your kit bag.
• Bring a change of clothing for after the race, especially training shoes and socks. You will sometimes run through water.
• Bring a towel in case it rains or you get wet.
• Bring warm clothing for before and after the race. Several layers are better than one thick coat.
• Gloves and a hat are advisable in the worst of winter for warming up.
• When it's very, very cold some people like to race in leggings.
• When it's very, very cold some people like to wear a tee-shirt under their vest.
• Bring food and drink if necessary but don't eat too close to your race.
• If it's a big race a toilet roll may come in handy. It is more comfortable than leaves.
• You must warm up before your race or you will get injuries. It can be very cold in winter.
• Arrive at least 45 minutes before your race, preferably longer so that you can look at the course.
• Always report to the team manager as soon as you arrive.
• Go to the start of the race 10 minutes before the start time. You don't want to miss it.
• Don't start too quickly in your first few races. You will eventually find your own starting pace.
• Remember cross country is a team race and every person and every position counts.
• When it is very, very muddy it sometimes helps to tape your running shoes on to your feet.
• Some of our group bring a small tent to shelter in when it rains.
• Make sure you know where the meeting is. Maps will be available for all venues.
• Make sure you know what time your race is. Timetable will be available.
• Check your bag before you leave home.
• Let the team manager know if you can't make it, either on Thursday at the club or on Tamworthac@aol.com
• Parents are always welcome as young athletes benefit from encouragement.
• If you're not sure of anything then please ask

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