Fast times await at speedy Woodbridge SilverLakes course


Rubidoux senior Kevin Ramos is the top returning finisher from last year's Boys Sweepstakes race.


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In what has become one of the most popular cross country invites in the United States, with over 12,000 athletes crossing the line, the Woodbridge Cross Country Classic hits the line beginning Friday afternoon for two stellar evenings of top-level competition.  

Held at the SilverLakes Sports Complex in Norco, the 38th addition of the event concludes under the stars Saturday night with the highly touted 'Sweepstakes' races! This year, not only are some of California's best competing, but 14 other states will also be represented.  Once held at Woodbridge High in Irvine, the event simply outgrew its campus. This will be the third season at the expansive facility in Norco.

Designed to be one of the fastest three-mile races in the nation, (i.e. the SilverLakes Speedway) athletes compete on the short turf, run upon a variety of soccer fields and pavement with long sweeping turns to allow for a consistent cadence.  Along with the uber-talented field, those Rated and Sweeps races become virtual three-mile 'sprints.'  

The spectator friendly meet provides a carnival atmosphere and laid the foundation for cross country 'night meets' that are run under the lights.  Meet director and creator, George Varvas, felt that the sport deserved its own spotlight, moving the meet to a two-day spectacle featuring the smaller schools on Friday night while the larger schools combine with the most talented teams and individuals on Saturday.