National Cross Country Returns to the Quad Cities for 5th Annual

The Quad Cities will once again welcome national cross country competition when Augustana College hosts the 5th Annual Interregional Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Saukie Golf Course. What began as a regional event has evolved into one of the Midwest’s most competitive early-season meets.

Top Teams from Across the Nation

This meet has grown into one of the biggest Division III cross country events in the Midwest. This year’s race will feature 62 colleges, more than 1,800 runners, and teams from six different regions of the country. That includes 12 nationally ranked women’s teams and 14 nationally ranked men’s teams.

The Saukie course is known for its rolling hills and great viewing spots for fans. It’s also the site of future NCAA and CCIW championship races, making it a great test for runners and an exciting event for spectators.

Event Schedule & Format

Race Day Schedule – LIVE RESULTS

9:30 a.m. – Course opens
10:35 a.m. – National Anthem
11:00 a.m. – Men’s DIII Gold Race
11:45 a.m. – Women’s DIII Gold Race
12:30 p.m. – Men’s Blue Race
1:15 p.m. – Women’s Blue Race
2:00 p.m. – Men’s Open Race
Note: There will be no women’s open race this year.

Friday Night Kickoff Event

The weekend begins Friday at 7:15 p.m. with D3 Glory Days, held in the Gävle Rooms at Augustana’s Gerber Dining Center. Runners, coaches, alumni, and fans will gather for stories, laughter, and a popular T-shirt exchange. Special edition event shirts will also be available.

A Community Event

Augustana Director of Cross Country Chad Gunnelson said he’s proud of how the meet has grown and the energy it brings each year. “This event really shows the best of Division III cross country,” he said.

He also thanked Mike Jay, Pat O’Brien, Dan Gleason, Bill Bulat, and Fred Whiteside for helping make the event run smoothly.

If You Go

Where: Saukie Golf Course, 3101 38th St, Rock Island, IL
Parking: Team vans and cars can park in the main lot; buses should drop off on 38th Street.

The Augustana Interregional Invitational continues to build its reputation as one of the nation’s top Division III cross country events — and one of the most exciting weekends for fans of the sport.