Cullowhee, N.C. – The Western Carolina men’s and women’s cross country teams are set for an exciting 2025 season. Head coach Jesse Norman has shared the schedule, which features races across three states.
The season kicks off on August 29 in Boone, N.C., where the Catamounts will compete in the Covered Bridge Open. This marks their fifth appearance there in seven years. Last year, the men’s team claimed third place, while Katherine Hopkins helped the women’s team secure a fifth-place finish with her 16th individual spot.
Next, on September 12, the teams will head to the Virginia Invitational in Charlottesville, marking their first regular-season visit to this city. Previously, they raced at Panorama Farms for the NCAA Southeast Regionals in 2019, which familiarizes them with the terrain.
The regular season wraps up on October 18 in Spartanburg, S.C., at the Upstate Invitational, where they have competed for five consecutive years. A month-long break in the schedule last season benefited the Catamounts, leading the men’s team to a runner-up finish at this event.
As November arrives, the teams will gear up for the Southern Conference Championships at the Tryon Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, N.C., on November 1. Last season’s conference race marked a significant achievement for the men, who finished as runners-up for the first time since 1993.
Following that, they return to Charlottesville for the NCAA Southeast Regionals on November 14, with hopes of paving their way to the National Championships on November 22 in Columbia, Mo. The prestigious race will take place at Gans Creek Cross Country Course.
Cross country is not just about the races. It’s a blend of teamwork, strategy, and perseverance. According to a recent NCAA report, cross country participation has grown by 6% over the last five years. This growth highlights the increasing interest and support for the sport across colleges and communities.
Stay updated on everything related to Catamount cross country and WCU Athletics by following their social media on Facebook and Twitter.
