Cleveland/Akron Selected to Host 2026 USATF Club Cross Country & National Championships

Elite National Event to Feature Seven Championship Races Including Debut of U20 Categories
 
CLEVELAND, OH – Greater Cleveland Sports Commission (GCSC), Sports Alliance of Greater Akron (SAGA) and USA Track & Field (USATF) are pleased to announce that Cleveland/Akron has been selected to host the 2026 USATF Club Cross Country & National Championships. This prestigious event will take place on December 12, 2026, at Silver Creek Metro Park in Norton, OH.
 
As the culminating event for distance running clubs across the United States, the championships will have an estimated economic impact of $1.5 million as nearly 2,000 of the nation’s top athletes, coaches and supporters will descend to the Cleveland/Akron area. The event represents a major collaborative effort between GCSC, SAGA and Summit Metro Parks to showcase the region’s elite cross-country capabilities.
 
“Greater Cleveland has earned a reputation for being one of the top destinations in the country for hosting major sporting events, and the selection of Cleveland/Akron for this national championship is a testament to that legacy,” said David Gilbert, President and CEO of Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. “Beyond the competition, this event serves as a vital economic development tool, while highlighting our region’s ability to compete for and win the major national events.”
 
The 2026 program marks the first time the national championships, club championships and Under 20 (U20) championships have been held in the same event, allowing for more athlete and fan participation across age groups and competitive categories.
 
“This will be the most important weekend of the year for cross country runners in the United States,” said Max Siegel, CEO of USA Track & Field. “As a host of some of the nation’s best high school and collegiate races, we look forward to seeing athletes from teens to masters competing on the course at Silver Creek Metro Park.”
2026 Championship Schedule includes:
 

• U20 Women: 6K
• U20 Men: 8K
• Open Women: 6K
• Open Men: 10K
• Masters Women: 6K
• Masters Men (60+): 8K
• Masters Men (40-59): 10K

“Hosting the 2026 USATF Club Cross Country & National Championships is a tremendous opportunity to showcase Summit County and our region on a national stage,” said Gregg Mervis, President and CEO of SAGA. “From the outstanding natural setting at Silver Creek Metro Park to the strong collaboration with local partners, our community provides an ideal environment for athletes, fans and families traveling from across the country.”
 
Silver Creek Metro Park, known for its versatile terrain and scenic trails, will provide a challenging and spectator-friendly environment for all seven contested championships.
 
Registration is expected to open June 1, 2026.
 
For more information on the event and future updates, please visit clevelandsports.org/crosscountry