News Summary

As the warm Florida evenings set in, Jacksonville is set to kick off the 2025 cross country season with several exciting events. Runners of all levels will gather for major meets including the BJXC First Chance 2-Miler and the Bayside Academy Admirals’ Twilight Invite. The North Florida Ospreys are ready to compete starting with their first night meet on August 29. With a season full of challenges, including the Atlantic Sun Championships and NCAA Regionals, the excitement is building up for athletes and fans alike.

Excitement in Florida as Cross Country Season Kicks Off

The vibrant city of Jacksonville is buzzing with anticipation as the 2025 cross country season kicks off this Thursday! Runners from all over the state will be lacing up their shoes and hitting the trails for a series of exciting meets. It’s the perfect time of year when the warm Florida sun gives way to cooler evenings, making it ideal for athletes to show off their speed and endurance.

Major Meets Highlight Opening Day

On this inaugural day, cross country enthusiasts can look forward to some fantastic events. Major meets include:

  • BJXC First Chance 2-Miler hosted by Bob Jones High School.
  • Bayside Academy Admirals’ Twilight Invite hosted by Bayside School.
  • Smiths Station Panther Stages.
  • Spread the Light hosted by Houston Academy.

These events are a great way for both seasoned runners and newcomers to get involved and showcase their talents. Parents, friends, and fans are expected to pack the stands, cheering their favorite runners on through each stride.

North Florida Ospreys Ready to Soar

In addition to these exciting meets, the North Florida men’s and women’s cross country teams have revealed their schedule for the season, much to the delight of their fans. Under the guidance of head coach Jeff Pigg, these student-athletes are prepared to compete fiercely.

The Ospreys kick off their season on Friday, Aug. 29, at the Florida Intercollegiate Cross Country Invitational held at Cecil Field, Jacksonville, starting at 7:30 p.m.. This marks a special occasion since it’s the only night meet of the season, providing a unique atmosphere for both runners and spectators alike. Fans can expect to see the men tackle an 8k course while the women will race a 5k.

Notably, this is the first time North Florida will host a regular season meet away from their usual Unf Hayt Golf Center, making it a memorable event for everyone involved.

Return of the Seminole Invite

Later in the schedule, the Ospreys will make a grand return to the Seminole Invite in Tallahassee, scheduled for Friday, Sept. 26. This combines tradition with competition, as the men will again run an 8k distance while the women will tackle the longer 6k, pushing their limits on the course.

The thrill continues as the Ospreys gear up for the Crimson Classic hosted by Alabama on Friday, Oct. 17, in the picturesque city of Tuscaloosa. This event will provide yet another opportunity for the team to gauge their performance against top-tier competition.

Aiming for Championship Glory

The team will also compete in the prestigious Atlantic Sun Championships scheduled for Friday, Oct. 31, at Cecil Field. The Ospreys face a significant challenge, striving to improve upon their runner-up finishes from the previous year, all while aiming for their first ASUN Championship victory since 2021. With high hopes, the Ospreys are feeling determined and ready to seize the moment.

Looking Ahead to NCAA Regionals

The season culminates in the NCAA South Regional Championship on Friday, Nov. 14, where the Ospreys will seek to surpass previous finishes. Their hard work and determination aim to succeed in qualifying for the NCAA Championships on Saturday, Nov. 22, in Columbia, Missouri. The stakes are high, as only the top two teams from each region will earn automatic spots, along with additional at-large teams and individual qualifiers.

This year’s season promises excitement and familiarity, featuring trips back to events at Florida State and Alabama. With six of the ten Osprey runners returning from last year’s ASUN Championships, including standout athletes like Smilla Kolbe and Seth Martinez, the team is poised to make a significant impact this year.

Get Ready for a Thrilling Season!

As the countdown to the first race begins, the enthusiasm is palpable. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there will be plenty of action to enjoy in the sunshine state. So, grab your friends, get your cheer gear on, and prepare to support the athletes chasing their dreams on the cross country trails!

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