Written on 2/18/08 - This was such a great event! The San Diego weather was in FULL cooperation and I've got a sunburn to prove it! It seemed like the athletes had a good time for the most part, there were some great races, highlighted by the close finish in the junior boys' race and a tight race up front in the masters mens' as the country's best came out to play.

I want to thank Thom Hunt and Paul Greer for directing such a successful event that drew 5,000 spectators, as well as Jim Estes for taking the time to help me figure out the best footage we can post and still fall under USATF Guidelines.

The sentiment I took from the top ten men's finishers is that they were happy with who made the team, given what the course in Edinburgh will present. Many on the squad seem to be "true" cross country runners highlighted by Ritz, Max, and the Torres bros. And speaking of, how great was it to see Eduardo make the team with his brother?

Shalane is an absolute monster, and it's great to hear that her first ever altitude training in Mexico is going well. Dathan seems far beyond the injury he sustained in Scotland, but I've yet to speak with him since the race. Led by these two, I think both teams look fairly solid heading into the World Championships in Scotland.

Congrats again to the athletes and thank you again to the meet organizers, let's continue making our sport great in America and abroad!