I have no experience in cross country and have some questions regarding the start of the race. I just watched these two videos that were uploaded to active and was trying to figure out what the strategies and rules are for the start of the race. Does anyone have any ideas?
What determines the positioning of each team on the starting line?
Is one position better or worse at the start?
What are some strategies for the start of the race?
What are the rules for the start of the race?
Any information would be great. Thanks!
St. Mary Invitational
Women's Race - Griak Invitational
I will answer your questions to the best of my ability from two differenct perspectives: (1) the runner (2) the coach. Starting position at most cross country meets is a random draw for your box position. Larger meets may position you according to performance if they feel there is a distinct advantage due to box placement. In most cases box position is not going to win or lose you the race due in large part to the length of the race. Start strategies depend on several variables. The runners level of performance compared to the field, the dificulty of the course, the race length, and conditions for the course on race day. If you are an athlete capable of contending for the win you will want to be sure that you start and establish a race position in the upper 1/4 of the field. It does get a bit dicey at the start due to the simple number of bodies battling for position. After approximately the first 800 to 1000 meters the race will settle in and you can begin to relax, compete, and run.
I ran Cross Country track in the early 70s in NYC at Van Cortland Park. Typical races had from 250 upwards to well over 400 runners. There would be many high school varsity races each Saturday and also JV races, all with roughly the same number of starters.
I believe the high school course has changed slightly, but back then we ran across a field for about 1/4 mile and funneled into a path that was about 10-15 feet wide. If you were not in say the top 40 leading the race, you were dead meat in the front hills.
As you have probably figured out from the other posts, your starting strategy will depend on the number of participants and the course design. If there are a large number of runners and there is an early funneling area you will need to get out fast enough to be in the front of the pack so that you don't get boxed out and held up. If the race is smaller or it has a fairly wide path, however, you are probably better going out at a more comfortable pace and trying to run even splits.
Edit: Are you asking because you are planning to run in a cross country race? If so, let us know a little bit about the event and we may be able to provide some more specific strategies.
