About the 21st Annual Garin Park XC Challenge
Garin Park is a real cross country course, with genuine climbs that leave your legs hollow and uneven ground that keeps you honest throughout. The route hammers uphill through the park, then opens onto a long flat stretch back to the finish. Views open up on the exposed sections, and the terrain underfoot is rough enough that footing demands as much attention as pace.
This race sits on the USATF Pacific Association Cross Country Grand Prix circuit, so the field tends to include competitive club runners alongside everyone else. That mix shows up at the start line and sets a tone that is more race than jog.
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Distances & Start Times
5K10/3/2026 09:00$25
5K10/3/2026 09:45$25
5K10/3/2026 10:30$25
Going for a Time?
Set a goal and get a pace band: every mile split on a card sized for your phone lock screen, so race morning needs no math.
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