BREAKING: Three South Bay cross country teams have just secured their spots at the prestigious NXN (Nike Cross Nationals), marking a significant achievement in high school sports. Redondo Union High School and Mira Costa High School’s boys teams, along with the Mira Costa girls, will compete at this elite national championship in Portland, Oregon, on Saturday morning.
UPDATE: This remarkable feat comes during a time when there are nearly 32,000 high school cross country teams across the United States, with only 22 squads per gender earning a chance to compete at NXN. The intense competition leading up to this moment reflects the dedication and talent of these athletes and their coaches.
In a thrilling CIF State Championship race last weekend, Redondo Union emerged victorious, claiming their first state title under coach Bob Leetch. The Sea Hawks narrowly defeated San Clemente by just 7 points, while Mira Costa secured an at-large spot with a strong third-place finish. The Mira Costa girls team also clinched California’s second automatic berth by finishing closely behind Buchanan.
Why This Matters: The NXN is not merely a race; it is a celebration of the sport, where high school athletes are treated like professionals. With events including campus tours and interactions with Olympians, this experience represents the pinnacle of achievement for young runners.
Both Leetch and Mira Costa’s co-head coach Renee Williams Smith have fostered a supportive and competitive culture that has propelled their teams to national prominence. Their partnership, rooted in shared history as teammates, showcases the strength of local coaching and mentorship.
“The running community in the South Bay is incredibly supportive,” said NXN meet director Rich Gonzalez. “It produces amazing talent and a culture that nurtures young runners.”
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on the Glendoveer Golf Course in Portland as these teams prepare for the race of a lifetime. The stakes are high, with the honor of competing at NXN driving these athletes forward.
As they gear up for the competition, the emotional weight of their achievements is evident. The journey to NXN has been filled with challenges, but for these dedicated runners, it underscores the power of perseverance and community support.
Stay tuned for more updates as these South Bay teams embark on this extraordinary national stage!
