The longest-serving National High School Championship is ending its run at 45 years. The Foot Locker National Championships, which were recognized in their earlier years as the Kinney National Cross Country Championships, held their final iteration in 2024, it was announced on Thursday. The meet had long served as the endpoint of the individual seasons for America's best prep distance runners, kickstarting in 1979. Originally broadcast on nationwide TV, it brought together the best across the country for one singular race, a concept that would then be replicated across all seasons of the sport.
The majority of the competitions were held in Balboa Park, California, with the famed double loop centered around the large incline in the middle. There was a seven-year period during which the race was held in Orlando, Florida, before returning to California. The meet, which saw its name change in 1993, played host to some of the sport's greatest runners, including current Pro Athletes Grant Fisher and Weini Kelati.
In its final year, it would be Elizabeth Leachman (Boerne Champion, TX) and Tamrat Gavenas (Phillips Andover, MA) who would take home the final titles. Course Records belong to Reuben Reina in 1985 with his 14:36 and Melody Fairchilds 16:39 in 1990.
Below is the full statement made by the Foot Locker Family.
An Announcement from Foot Locker
To our FLXC Community,
After thoughtful and careful consideration, Foot Locker has made the difficult decision to conclude the annual Foot Locker Cross Country Championships (FLXC). As we look to the future, this strategic decision reflects our ongoing commitment to evaluating where we can make the most meaningful impact for our business, our customers, and the communities we serve, including the running community.
For the past 45 years, the FLXC has been more than just a race; it has been a celebration of passion, perseverance, and the boundless potential of student-athletes across the country. As the longest running cross country race in the nation, it has brought together generations of runners, coaches, families, and fans and helped build one of the most inspiring communities in high school sports.
We extend our deepest gratitude to every athlete who toed the line, every coach who guided their team, and every partner who helped bring the event to life. Your enthusiasm and dedication have been instrumental in making FLXC an extraordinary event year after year. Your role in uplifting the sport of cross country running and its athletes has truly been invaluable.
Although we are closing this chapter, our commitment to the running community remains strong. We plan to continue to support the sport through focused initiatives across our stores, such as the Champs Sports Run Club series, which are designed to foster community and an active lifestyle.
The legacy of FLXC will always be a proud part of our story, and yours.
With great appreciation,
The Foot Locker Team