Plante’s Ferry in the Spokane Valley hosts the 2018 National Club Cross Country Championships on December 8 beginning at 10 a.m. Obviously, Spokane boasts a significant running community, but the USA Track & Field Club Championships adds a special component to the regular northwest running spirit. This prestigious event brings approximately 1,500 athletes representing an estimated 65 running clubs from around the country. The men’s race is a 10k course and the women’s race is a 6k course. The top women usually blitz the 3.7 miles under 20 minutes, while the top men burn 6.2 miles in 29 minutes. Next to Bloomsday, this might be the most competitive running event in the area.
Admittedly, there are several out-of-town runners that will likely win podium glory. Then again, the smart spectators will keep their eyes open for some Spokane Swifts or some Spokane Distance Project runners. //
