August 2026 E-Newsletter

NEWS | FEATURES | EVENTS | RUN CLUBS | SUBSCRIBE

Numerous college, high school and middle school runners are starting another cross country season. Cross country running is often regarded as one of the purest sports due to its emphasis on raw athleticism, mental fortitude, and direct competition against oneself and the elements. If not racing yourself, hopefully you will be able to watch an upcoming cross country race and cheer on these athletes.

Last year the Ohio High School Cross Country Association increased the divisions from three to four divisions.

History of Cross Country By Matt McGowan

English schools started competing in cross country races in 1837. William C. Vosburgh introduced cross country to the United States in 1878. Cross country became a formal sport in the United States in 1887. 

August Race Calendar

For a free listing in an upcoming race calendar send RUNOHIO all of your race info – runohio@ee.net

Directing or sponsoring a race - send RUNOHIO – runohio@ee.net your race information including a contact phone number to be listed free on the RUNOHIO web site and in the print RUNOHIO.

If you are interested in advertising your event or other running related products - RUNOHIO is offering discount on all ads. If you are interested in adverting in the print RUNOHIO contact Matt McGowan runohio@ee.net  and Chuck Bartlett for advertising on the RUNOHIO web site and RUNOHIO monthly E-Newsletter chuck@runningnetwork.com

Hot Weather Running

With a couple of more weeks of hot weather running many athletes are looking forward to the fall with cooler temperatures. Don't forget to drink plenty of water before and after your runs. This is especially important during the hot and humid days. Cooler fall weather will soon greet us as we go out for a run or race. This cooler weather combined with the colorful Ohio autumn will allow for some excellent running conditions over the next few months. Many athletes will be testing their summer training in an upcoming fall race. A number of runners will tackle a half marathon or marathon. Good luck!

THE RUNNING SERVANT

In 2009, Aaron Burros was nearly 400 lbs and unhappy with his health and appearance when he graduated from The College of Biblical Studies. He turned to running and lost 100 lbs his first year and 75 lbs over the next 4 years. 

2026 USATF Masters Outdoor Championship 

Spire Institute in Geneva, Ohio- July 16 - July 19

39th annual Circleville Classic 5K in Memory of Jeff & Jean McGowan – October 24th

Congratulations to the athletes who competed in the OHSAA Cross Country Championships as well as the various National Championships. Several pictures from the OHSAA Cross Country Championships are in this issue. This year the OHSAA added a fourth division for both boys and girls resulting in several new schools and runners competing and winning awards in the State Cross Country Championship compared to when there were only three divisions for each. 

Trio of Races" in Ohio, offering both in-person and virtual options for participants. Key events include the Roundtown Classic 5 Mile/5K on July 18, a potential late summer event, and the annual Circleville Classic 5K.



USATF Club Cross Country & National Championships

December 12th - Silver Creek Metro Park, Norton, Ohio

The 2026-27 USATF Club Cross Country & National Championships will be the first time in recent years that the Club Championships and National Championships will be combined into a single event. The Championship will consist of seven races across all age groups.

Races and Race Directing

Most early road races were organized by running clubs or individuals who were runners

National Running News

Advertise with RUNOHIO / List Your Upcoming Races Free in RUNOHIO

OHSAA Transgender Policy

Become an Ohio Track and Field Official

Running Clubs

RUNOHIO Race Calendar and Advertising