Charlotte, North Carolina, November 29, 2025
The Brooks XC Championships will debut as a major event for high school cross country, replacing the historic Foot Locker Cross Country Championships. Scheduled for December 13, the event aims to foster local talent, featuring four regional meets leading up to the national championship. The South Regional Championship will take place in Charlotte, providing an opportunity for local athletes to shine on a national stage. The initiative includes a ‘Golden Ticket’ program to qualify elite runners, emphasizing competition and community support.
The Brooks XC Championships: A New Era for High School Cross Country
Join the excitement as the Brooks XC Championships take flight, promoting local talent and resilience in Charlotte.
Charlotte, North Carolina – A new landmark event in high school athletics is gearing up to fill the competitive landscape left by the Foot Locker Cross Country Championships. The inaugural Brooks XC Championships will be held on December 13, 2025, at Balboa Park, San Diego, California, promising to be a significant platform for young athletes across the nation.
With a keen focus on fostering talent and encouraging athletic excellence, the Brooks XC Championships will include four regional meets leading to the national event. The South Regional Championship will take place right here in Charlotte at McAlpine Creek Park on November 29, 2025. This event represents a tremendous opportunity for local athletes to showcase their skills while boosting the visibility of Charlotte’s commitment to youth sports.
Embracing Competition and Community
In partnership with Fleet Feet, Brooks Running introduced the “Golden Ticket” program aimed at integrating top-tier competition into the championship framework. This initiative automatically qualifies 20 elite athletes based on their previous performances in national meets and track records. This means that local success stories can grasp the national spotlight, embodying the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines North Carolina entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Regional Meet Schedule and Locations
The Brooks XC Championships will consist of four regional meets held on the same day:
- Midwest Regional Championship: November 29, 2025, at the Wayne Dannehl National Cross Country Course in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
- South Regional Championship: November 29, 2025, at McAlpine Creek Park in Charlotte, North Carolina.
- Northeast Regional Championship: November 29, 2025, at Franklin Park in Boston, Massachusetts.
- West Regional Championship: December 6, 2025, at the Mt. SAC Cross Country Course in Walnut, California.
This strategic alignment allows for enhanced local participation and community investment, essential ingredients for economic growth in Mecklenburg County. By facilitating high-caliber athletic events, Charlotte can further establish itself as a hub of athletic excellence while simultaneously boosting local businesses that support and cater to the sporting community.
The Benefits of the Golden Ticket Program
The “Golden Ticket” program adds an exciting layer of competition, automatically recognizing the nation’s top athletes. This feature provides both athletes and spectators the chance to witness exceptional talent, creating an inviting atmosphere for everyone from dedicated supporters to casual fans. It encourages high performance and creates a competitive spirit that can drive innovation, much like the entrepreneurial endeavors that flourish in our region.
Participating in Brooks XC Championships
Athletes eager to challenge themselves can participate by registering for their respective regional championships. The official Brooks XC Championships website will provide comprehensive details and registration information, making it accessible for a wider range of athletes to engage and compete.
Final Thoughts
The Brooks XC Championships emerge not only as an avenue for athletic recognition but also as a testament to the dedication and resilience of our local community. As Charlotte plays host to the South Regional Championship, residents and local businesses are encouraged to show support for young athletes chasing their dreams. In doing so, they contribute to the ongoing narrative of innovation and development that underscores Charlotte’s identity, driving both economic and personal achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Brooks XC Championships?
The Brooks XC Championships is a premier high school cross-country event established to fill the void left by the Foot Locker Cross Country Championships, which concluded its 45-year run in 2024.
When and where is the national championship taking place?
The national championship is scheduled for December 13, 2025, at Balboa Park in San Diego, California.
What are the regional championship locations and dates?
- Midwest Regional Championship: November 29, 2025, at the Wayne Dannehl National Cross Country Course in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
- South Regional Championship: November 29, 2025, at McAlpine Creek Park in Charlotte, North Carolina.
- Northeast Regional Championship: November 29, 2025, at Franklin Park in Boston, Massachusetts.
- West Regional Championship: December 6, 2025, at the Mt. SAC Cross Country Course in Walnut, California.
What is the “Golden Ticket” program?
The “Golden Ticket” program automatically qualifies 20 top athletes for the national championship. These athletes are selected based on their performances in national meets, track personal records from the previous season, and fall 2025 cross-country results, particularly at major invitationals or when challenging course records.
How can athletes participate in the Brooks XC Championships?
Athletes can participate by registering for the regional championships in their respective regions. Details and registration information are available on the official Brooks XC Championships website.
Key Features of the Brooks XC Championships
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| National Championship Date and Location | December 13, 2025, at Balboa Park in San Diego, California. |
| Regional Championships | Four regional meets leading up to the national event, including locations in Wisconsin, North Carolina, Massachusetts, and California. |
| Golden Ticket Program | Automatically qualifies 20 top athletes for the national championship based on their performances in national meets, track personal records, and fall 2025 cross-country results. |
| Partnership with Fleet Feet | Collaboration to enhance the championship experience and provide opportunities for athletes to showcase their talents. |
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