Pre-Race Duties: What Every Official Should Review Before the Start
Cross country officials play a crucial role in ensuring that every meet begins fairly, safely and on time. While most eyes are on the athletes lining up at the start, the work of officials begins well before the starting signal is given. A thorough pre-race routine allows officials to prevent problems, reinforce safety, and provide consistency for all competitors.
Course Inspection and Markings: The first step for officials is to walk and visually inspect the course. Confirm that the route is clearly and consistently marked with flags, cones, or chalk, and that any intersections are easy to follow. Pay special attention to potential hazards such as uneven ground, exposed tree roots, or standing water. If issues are identified, work with meet management to address them before athletes arrive at the line. A properly marked and safe course not only prevents confusion but also minimizes the risk of injury.
Starting Line Set-Up: The starting area should be wide enough to accommodate all teams fairly, with starting boxes clearly identified and evenly spaced. There should be a 2-inch-wide starting line marked, and a good rule of thumb is each box a width of the number of teams multiplied by 6 feet. NFHS rules recommend that boxes be numbered from left to right facing the running area.
Officials should check that the ground surface is safe, free of debris, and allows for a clean acceleration off the line. Review the starting commands, the use of the starting device, and the recall procedure with the crew to ensure consistency. A well-organized starting line sets the tone for the entire race.
Communication with Coaches and Athletes: Before the race, officials should meet briefly with coaches to review any last-minute updates. This may include weather adjustments, course changes and markings, or reminders about sportsmanship expectations. Taking time to answer questions and ensure understanding reduces confusion during competition. Clear and proactive communication helps build trust between officials and coaches, reinforcing the shared goal of a fair and safe race.
Safety Protocols: Finally, officials should confirm with meet management that emergency procedures are in place. This includes knowing the location of games committee approved medical staff, reviewing communication methods in case of an incident, and verifying that meet management has considered weather conditions such as heat, storms, or poor air quality. When safety protocols are addressed before the race, officials are better prepared to act quickly if the unexpected occurs.
Pre-race duties set the stage for the success of the entire cross country meet. From course markings to communication with coaches, every detail matters. By following a consistent pre-race checklist, officials help create an environment where athletes can compete safely, fairly, and at their best.
