🎽 Packet
Pickup
Pickup
Wednesday, December 9 · 6:00–7:30 PM
Grab your bib and event shirt at the Pavilion at Moncus Park.
$40
Race entry and your event shirt
5K
Cross country, on grass and trail
10:00 AM
Start time, Sunday morning
All Welcome
Run it, jog it, or walk it
Run Where the Champions Ran
Saturday, the country's best young runners race it. Sunday, it's your turn.
On December 12, Moncus Park hosts the 2026 USATF National Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships. Qualifying athletes ages 7 to 18 are coming to Lafayette from all over the country to race for national titles, and it's the first national championship ever held at Moncus Park.
The next morning, we're leaving the course up for our neighbors. The Champions Course 5K runs on that same championship course, the day after. Race it for a personal best or take it at a stroll under the oaks with a friend. Either way, you'll cross the same finish line the champions did.
Plan Your Morning
Parking
Race day parking information will be shared before the race. Plan to arrive a little early so you have time to settle in before the 10:00 AM start.
What to wear
This is cross country, so expect grass and dirt underfoot. Trail or cross country shoes work well, and dress in layers for a December morning.
Your shirt
Every registration includes an official Champions Course 5K event shirt.
Stay Toasty at the Warm-Up Zone
🔥 The Warm-Up Zone
Presented by Southern Air and Shockwave Generators
December mornings in Acadiana can have a bite. Before the start and after you cross the finish, duck into the Warm-Up Zone to shake off the chill, stretch out, and cheer on the rest of the field.
Good to Know
Do I have to run the whole thing?
Not at all. Everyone is welcome, and walkers are part of the fun. Go at whatever pace feels good.
What if it rains?
Keep an eye on our social media for any weather updates on race morning.
Can I watch the Junior Olympics on Saturday?
The championship races on December 12 will stream live on USATF.tv.
Where does my registration go?
Moncus Park is a nonprofit conservancy, so your $40 helps care for the trails, trees, and open space you're running through.
See You at the Start Line
Sunday, December 13 at 10:00 AM. $40 gets you the race and the shirt.
