Nike Cross Nationals Northwest Regional 2009

Photo Alan Versaw                      

    (Photo by Paul Everett) National championship fever is spreading across the country. The world of prep cross country begins its ascent to the national finals. Many will seek individual honors at either the historic Foot Locker National Cross Country Championships or Nike Cross National Championships. Nike Cross Nationals will offer the Team National Championship. 

Milesplit Western US National Editor Aron Taylor previews the NXN Northwest Championships.

Following the NXN announcement of a Northwest Championship North Central seems in a state of shock!

Galen Rupp speaks regarding the value of NXN

Mean Panthers rang the cow bells atop the hill! Go NXN Northwest

A Civil War cannon is used to begin the races. This particular cannon has been fired over 3000 times in live combat. Learn the history behind the NXN Northwest Cannon.

At the awards ceremony NXN Northwest athletes began dancing and having a great time. It should be noted Crater, OR was #1 for team spirit as their energy initiated this release of emotion. Very cool!

Bishop Kelly standout, Emily Nist claims the individual NXN title in 17:57.97. She reflects on victory over US#11 Annamarie Maag.

Following the races athletes converged at the awards area, following a Crater, OR initiated party, YMCA came over the speakers and the following occurred. Possibly, the funnest meet this Editor has ever been too. Great job Meet Directors!

Tony Peace wins the middle school championship.

Gig Harbor #1 Maureen Tremblay introduces the Gig Harbor runners as the prepare to compete in the NXN Northwest Girls Championship race.

Mead, WA was found at the top of the hill with cowbells cheering on the runners. Go Panthers!

NXN Northwest JV Champion Andie Creel talks about her race and decisive 20:06.5 victory.

NXN Northwest JV Champion Keith Williams talks about his race and individual victory.

NXN Northwest Girls Varsity Open Champion Cheryn Trapp talks about her race and individual victory.

NXN Northwest Boys Varsity Open Champion Pat Madden discusses his race and individual victory. Also leads his Summit team to the team championship.

Walking through the athlete central I came across Bozeman, Montana huddled in their tent. Welcome to NXN Northwest!

Kristen Armstrong sang the national anthem as Idaho Skydiving performed an aerial performance. The final with the flag.

Idaho Skydiving performs during national anthem; this is the first of three skydivers who landed.

Clint Storey introduces us to his twin daughters whom competed in the Middle School Championship; then discusses grandfather Dale Storey who claimed the 1961 NCAA XC Championship over future Olympian Billy Mills.