The year is 1969 and 13 schools gather at Hedges-Boyer Park to run in the first ever Tiffin Cross Country Carnival. With only three races, each being two miles long, the event started and ended all within a two hour time span. The large gathering of runners from across the state of Ohio was inspired by a group of runners who wanted more fierce competition outside of the normal meets, which normally featured two to three different teams. The key for them was getting the best of the best all in one place, a place where they could push each other and all compete on the same course, at the same time, in the same conditions.
The Tiffin Cross Country Carnival has grown exponentially since its conception and has become THE race for cross country runners, coaches, and fans from all over. It has become a tradition in Seneca County and has put the city of Tiffin on the map. During what has become known as “Carnival Weekend,” the City of Tiffin will nearly double its population on race day when you count the runners and then add in the parents, coaches, and fans. More than 20,000 people are estimated to visit Seneca County during this monumental event. The Tiffin Cross Country Carnival has taken its rightful place as the second largest cross country race in THE NATION. Those who compete at Hedges-Boyer Park on the course that has been deemed “challenging and a course that is true cross country,” can be proud for crossing the finish line and competing against the best of the best.
When you take part in The Cross Country Carnival, you are taking part in history in the making. The event has been weaved in to Seneca County’s history and will continue to be part of its future. This event is just one unique happening that makes Tiffin and Seneca County the fantastic community that it is. This weekend, the traditional second weekend in September, the Tiffin Cross Country Carnival will celebrate its 53rd year and will begin its first race at 8:30am. High schoolers, middle schoolers, all the way down to elementary aged kids will have the opportunity to participate in this legendary event. Over 8,000 runners will step up to the starting line on Saturday and when the gun goes off, the next chapter of the Tiffin Cross Country Carnival will be written.
The adventure expands far outside the course lines so make sure to check out all that Tiffin and Seneca County has to offer. Shops, restaurants, museums, farmers markets, and more await you once the finish line has been crossed. Take a look into the community behind the carnival. Good luck to all and see you on Saturday!
