The Team Time Trial: Time to Borrow From Cycling
In the XC version of Team Time Trials (TTT), we won't witness funny helmets, speed suits, or time spent working on running form in wind tunnels. But it would be fun to see running's version of drafting, teamwork, pace-lines, and runners sacrificing for the good of the team.
In a XC team time trial, each team of runners starts alone, separated by a predetermined time stagger.
We'd choose from two scoring systems:
Final scoring runner's time-the team with the fastest final scoring runner is the winner. Basing the team results on the 4th or 5th runner would be the system most closely resembling what we see in cycling's TTT. This format rewards the teams that work well together in getting their final scoring runner across the line. Pack running, strategic rotation of runners' positions, and sacrifice are the order of the day here.
Total time-the team with the fastest cumulative time for their scoring runners is the winner. Adding up the times of teams' scoring runners somewhat parallels the traditional individual-place-based scoring system. The higher up all your runners are, the better. And having a low-stick front-runner type helps make up for overall depth.
Similar to ekiden racing, the TTT minimizes the number of runners at the start/finish lines and throughout the course. Having five, six, or seven runners from the same team on one section of the course is pretty minimal and likely very safe.
We also shouldn't overlook the benefits a TTT has on a team's development. Emphasizing pack running and improving the performance of one's final scoring runner can pay big dividends down the road. And while you eliminate the head-to-head nature of standard cross country racing, a TTT is a true test of cooperation and teamwork.