Fastest Coach in the State Race Is Back


James Vance was all alone out on front of the last FCITSR, obliterating Kelly Christensen's course record. Photo by Tim Hilt.

After a one-year hiatus, the Fastest Coach in the State race is back for its fifth iteration. On Saturday December 10th at 9:30 AM, the gun will sound for the only race in the country that gives coaches the opportunity to settle the debate of who is the most fit.

The last time that this extravaganza went down, James Vance, the venerable assistant from Thompson Valley took down Kelly Christensen's course record. Christiansen was not present for the most recent race. One can only imagine the fireworks if both men toe the line at once. Before 2014, Christensen had utterly dominated the men's race.

In the women's division, the last three winners have all hailed from The Classical Academy. The last winner to not don the maroon of TCA was Ruby Bode from Estes Park. Will TCA get to four straight titles? Or will someone else (Monarch coaches?) challenge them for their crown?

This season will see a renewal of the classification team race started in 2014. To settle the debate of which classification has the fastest coaches, the race will be scored in a team format set by CHSAA classifications. The early edge in the team race goes to the classification that can shore up the most depth via participation. A running update of who is coming will be posted to Colorado Track XC to fill up teams. The most recent title was dominated in 2014 by 5A with 4A edging out 3A for second.

For the second year there will also be an alumni division. Any graduate of any program who wants to take another 5000 meter tour of Lyons is more than welcome to come out and run. Parents and current cross country athletes are also welcome to come out and push their coaches to run faster.

Athletes, if you are reading this, the expectation of the Colorado Track XC staff and the organizers of this race is that you immediately contact them via whatever means necessary to let them know that you expect them to toe the line.

The race is positioned brilliantly in between Thanksgiving and Christmas rendering any possible excuses totally invalid. 

It is not enough to be the first coach to make it from the start line to the mile marker at a weekend invitational. You have to do it against live competition over 5000 meters.

If you plan to come:

First, fill out this form

Dig out an old JV jersey from your school to race in (bonus for spandex).

Bring $5 to kick in to the prize pool

Gun goes off 9:30 AM, Lyons High School

Coffee, donuts, and live streaming of Foot Locker Nationals to follow.