Your Child Can Be a Runner
What Is Elementary Cross Country?
Cross country is running outdoors over a marked course rather than around a track. Dave's Elementary Cross Country Series introduces K–6 students in participating Northwest Ohio school districts to the sport through short, age-appropriate races in a positive school-community environment.
Some kids come because they already love running. Others are trying their first organized sport, period. Both belong here. Races are grouped by grade band so every child is running a distance built for them.
- Kindergarten–2nd grade: a half mile
- 3rd–4th grade: a half mile
- 5th–6th grade: one mile
A First Fun Step Into Running
For a lot of kids, this is where it starts. High school coaches across the region have watched their team numbers grow year over year as more elementary runners move up through the pipeline — some programs have gone from a handful of athletes to fielding some of the largest teams in their conference.
Beginner Friendly
Younger runners race shorter distances built for their grade level, so every child is racing a course that fits where they are.
Age-Appropriate Distance
Kids don't need any cross country experience to participate. Most are trying an organized running event for the very first time — and that's exactly who this is for.
Represent Your School
Kids get the excitement of running alongside classmates and wearing their school's colors — the same pride they'd feel cheering on a school sports team, just from the starting line.
Everyone Gets Recognized
Every finisher earns a ribbon, not just the fastest kids. Top finishers are recognized too, but crossing the line is what gets celebrated most.
Missing a Race is Okay
One registration covers the whole series. Families don't have to make every meet — come to the ones that work, and we'll see your runner at the next one.
Find Your Elementary Cross Country Series
Choose your school district below for current race dates, locations, schedules, and registration.
Anthony Wayne
Race Dates
Perrysburg
Race Dates
Sylvania
Race Dates
Springfield
Race Dates
Oregon
Race Dates
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our products and services.
No. Most kids are trying an organized running event for the first time, and the program is built for exactly that.
Kindergarten through 6th grade, depending on the district program.
Generally a half mile for K–4 and one mile for 5th–6th grade, though exact distances can vary slightly by district — check your school's registration page for details.
No. One registration covers the whole series, and missing a meet is completely fine.
That's completely normal, and it's part of why every finisher — nervous or confident — gets a ribbon at the line. Volunteers and high school runners are there on course to encourage every kid across the finish.
Comfortable athletic shoes, athletic clothing, and weather-appropriate layers. No special gear is needed.
No. Spikes aren't necessary for elementary racing — a good pair of comfortable athletic shoes is all your child needs.
Yes, each runner is timed with an ankle chip, and results are made available after the race.
Every finisher receives a ribbon. Top 10 finishers in each race are recognized individually.
Yes — families are welcome and encouraged to cheer runners on from the course.
Parking details are listed on each district's registration page — plan to arrive early, especially for the first meet of the season.
Races go on rain or shine unless there is lightning or another safety concern.
Select your school district above and register through the district's registration page before race day.
The series currently supports Anthony Wayne, Sylvania, Springfield (also open to Swanton and Maumee), Perrysburg, and Oregon (also open to Lake and Genoa) schools.
Program cost varies by district — select your school district above for current registration details.
