Boston Middle School Cross Country

With the goal of developing a year-round youth running presence in Boston, the Boston Athletic Association provided a novice cross-country regimen and championship to seven Boston Middle Schools during the fall of 1997. Today, the program continues to raise running interest and enthusiasm among Boston youth.

Sponsored by the B.A.A. and adidas, in partnership with the Boston Center for Youth and Families, the Boston Public Schools and Boston Parks & Recreation, the program consists of a four-week structured introduction to the sport of cross country. Focusing on the fundamentals of running, team participation, and health benefits, the training program offers a unique athletic opportunity to the youths of Greater Boston.

The program culminates with the Boston Middle School Cross Country Championship at historic Franklin Park, the site of the 1991 and 1995 USATF National Championships and the 1992 World Cross Country Championship. Held on the Thursday prior to the Mayor’s Cup Cross Country, the event consists of races for boys and girls, as well as a relay race among teams from each of the participating schools. Roberto Clemente Field in the Back Bay Fens and the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center has also hosted this event.