DISTANCES

JUNIOR HIGH:

This distance can vary, but are usually two distances; 3,000 Meters (1.86 Miles), OR 3,200 Meters (2.00 Miles) 

(Click here) for MONROE CENTRAL JUNIOR HIGH COURSE MAP

HIGH SCHOOL:

The IHSAA mandates that all courses are 5,000 Meters (3.10 Miles).

(Click here) for MONROE CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL COURSE MAP

SCORING

Scores are determined by summing the top five individual finishing places on each team. In the United States, the most common scoring system is seven runners, with the top five scoring. Points are awarded to the individual runners of eligible teams, equal to the position in which they cross the finish line (first place gets 1 point, second place gets 2 points, etc.). The points for these runners are summed, and the lowest score wins. A team's sixth and seventh runner are scored in the overall field and are known as "pushers" or "displacers" as their place can count ahead of other runners, giving other teams more points

Individual athletes, and athletes from incomplete teams (teams consisting of less than 5 athletes or teams) and individuals who have been disqualified are excluded from scoring.

The lowest possible score in a five-to-score match is 15 (1+2+3+4+5), achieved by a team's runners finishing in each of the top five positions.  

EQUIPMENT (SHOES)

Cross country running involves very little specialized equipment. Races are run in a jersey and short provided by MC. In particularly cold conditions, long-sleeved shirts and tights can be worn to retain warmth without losing mobility.

In high school, the most common footwear are cross country spikes, lightweight racing shoes with a rubber sole and five or more metal spikes screwed into the forefoot part of the sole. Spike length depends on race conditions, with a muddy course appropriate for spikes as long as 25 millimetres (0.98 in). If a course has a harder surface, spikes as short as 6 millimetres (0.24 in) may be most effective.

While spikes are suitable for grassy, muddy, or other slippery conditions, runners may choose to wear racing flats, rubber-soled racing shoes without spikes, if the course includes significant portions of paved surfaces or dirt road. Some great brands to look into are Brooks, Adidas, Saucony, and Asics. Every person has different feet with different needs of cushion, support, etc. so it is recommended to go to a running store that has employees trained to pick the right shoe. 

INDIVIDUAL AND TEAM QUALIFYING IN IHSAA TOURNAMENT 

Sectionals: Top 5 Teams advance, next 10 individuals on non-advancing teams advance to Regional.

Regionals: Top 6 Teams advance, next 10 individuals on non-advancing teams advance to State.

State: Individual All-State is place 1-20.