08/26/2026
25th Annual UC Santa Cruz XC Challenge, Santa Cruz
4.15 miles. Aug 23, 2026
77 women from ages 18-84
120 men from ages 19-80
Perfect conditions for the XC SEASON OPENER on a GORGEOUS WODDED COURSE - 2 loops.
Thank you Santa Cruz Track Club for a sensational morning and perfectly organised race.
Next stop on the circuit is the 33rd annual Phil Widener Empire Open
Sunday, August 30, 2026
PA/USATF Cross Country
3.4 miles
3 races:
Women's Open: 8:45 am
Men's Masters (40 and older): 9:30 am
Men's Open: 10:30 am
Please plan to arrive early to avoid backups at the park entrance kiosk. Carpool if possible.
$1500 PRIZE PURSE FOR USATF MEMBERS AND TEAMS
Online registration
deadline to register Thursday, August 27th
Free for ERC members
$25 for non-members
Free for PAUSATF comped athletes (must have been awarded comped entry for the 2025 XC season by the PAUSATF)
We encourage all participants to consider becoming an Empire Runner's Club member for $12 as a youth or $36 as an adult, which includes free race registration year-round to multiple events and additional opportunities.
Mail in Registration
Must be received by Wednesday, August 26th. Send check payable to Empire Runners to: Empire Open
1350A Yulupa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95405
$25 for member/non-members
Free for PAUSATF comped athletes (must have been awarded comped entry for the 2026 XC season by the PAUSATF)
NO RACE DAY ENTRIES. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Entry fees are not refundable unless the event is canceled.
Confirmation email is your proof of registration.