The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Cross Country Sectionals hosted by Huntsville High School will take place at the John Hunt Cross Country Running Course Thursday, Nov. 5. The first race, 4A Boys, is set to begin at 8:30am.

“Huntsville High School Cross Country is honored and excited to have been chosen by the AHSAA to host section championships for 4 classifications totaling over 40 schools this Thursday, stated Blake Borden, Huntsville High Head Cross Country & Track/Field Coach. “John Hunt provides these hard working student athletes the opportunity to not only compete to earn spots at the state championship next weekend, but the potential to set new personal records because the course is incredibly fast. With everyone trying to peak at the end of the season, the stage is definitely set this Thursday to end on a high note.”

There are will be 42 schools competing from Class 1A, 2A, 4A, 6A & 7A for a ticket to the AHSAA Cross Country State Championships. Local high schools competing include: Bob Jones, Grissom, Huntsville, James Clemens, Sparkman, Randolph, Columbia, Buckhorn, Hazel Green, Madison Academy, Madison County, Westminster Christian and more.

Marvin Chou, Assistant Director of the AHSAA said, “We are so thankful and excited to be at this point in the season for Cross Country.  We are thrilled that all of our Sectionals should have terrific weather this week. The Sectional Meet Directors have done an outstanding job in securing some of the best facilities to run these meets at. Local communities and fans will hopefully go out and support these students as they try and secure a spot in next week’s State Championships.”

There is a $5 charge per vehicle for parking. Spectating the AHSAA Cross Country Sectionals is free. COVID-19 guidelines are in place requiring face masks and social distancing.

“Huntsville Parks & Recreation is excited to continue their relationship with the Alabama High School Athletic Association,” said Steve Ivey, Director of Huntsville Parks & Recreation. “The John Hunt Running Course was designed with the vision to host local and state high school events and we are happy to see them continue in 2020.”

You can find more info and a full list of COVID-19 Guidelines for Thursday’s AHSAA Cross Country Sectionals HERE.