Don't let the smile disarm you, he rarely loses. Photo by Alan Versaw.
Actually, we don't yet have a confirmation from Kelly Christensen that he will be participating in this year's Fastest Coach in the State Race, but after calling out Greg Weich and Matt Norton after last year's win, he probably needs to show up this year.
Regardless, it will be a grand time. A total of 27 coaches from across the state (flash update, now up to 34 coaches!), but mostly up and down the Front Range, are already committed, with more to follow.
My two assistant coaches (winners of the last two female titles) are running a half marathon this weekend and will make their race decision once they have time to assess how they're bouncing back from that effort.
Coaches will be broken out into classifications for purposes of team scoring: 2A, 3A, 4A, and 5A. At this point in time, 2A and 5A probably need to do a little internal recruiting if they mean to keep pace with the giants of 3A and 4A. Middle school and college coaches will get their own classifications if enough show--both categories of coaches are welcome. Club coaches, too. If you coach cross country here in Colorado, you are invited. That would include you, Lisa Rainsberger!
Spectators are invited to join in the fun and try to pace, or perhaps cajole, the coaches of their choice.
Racing gets underway at the Lyons High School cross country course at 10 AM, on Saturday, December 13.
Those interested in participating should contact race director Ben Hershelman will all due promptness. Mr. Hershelman can be reached at bhershel@jeffcoschools.us.
A paltry $5 entry fee gets you into the race. One race, one chance to be the fastest.