Parent - Spectator Info for 2023 XC Nationals
November 8th, 2023
Tips and details for spectators at NIRCA Nationals in Shelbyville, IN
#NIRCANats Spectator Race Day Info
Welcome to the NIRCA Cross Country National Championships! -- We're excited you're making the trip out to support club running!
Weather
The weather in Shelbyville is anticipated to be sunny and around 55° F! Although this seems like perfect racing conditions, weather patterns can change quickly. In case of bad weather, the following weather plan is in place.
NIRCA's weather plan for race day:
-Instructions will be provided over the Public Address system at the course, as well as on our social media (Facebook & Instagram).
-Delays or cancellations will be reviewed on a case by case basis, assessing future risk, and following local/park guidelines for sport safety.
-The event will be delayed if there are signs of lightning.
-The event has run historically in rain, snow, or shine. If the event is cancelled on account of inclement weather, everyone must exit the course.
Course Maps
| Course Map - Men's |
| Course Map - Women's |
Race Schedule
Finalized Event Schedule
Saturday, November 11
| 7:30 AM | Packet pickup begins |
| 8:30 AM | NIRCA Open & Alumni 6k |
| 10:00 AM | Women's Jr/Sr/Grad 6k |
| 10:05 AM | NIRCA Open & Alumni 6k Awards Presentation |
| 11:00 AM | Men's Jr/Sr/Grad 8k |
| 12:00 PM | Women's Championship 6k |
| 1:00 PM | Men's Championship 8k |
| 2:00 PM | Women's Freshman/Sophomore 6k |
| 3:00 PM | Men's Freshman/Sophomore 8k |
| 3:45 PM | Class Race & Nats 14k/2k Challenge Recognition |
| 4:15 PM | Championship Race Recognition |
Award times are approximate and contingent on when results are available. For more NIRCA Nationals info, check the Nationals event coverage page on clubrunning.org for up-to-the-minute information.
General Nationals Info
- Parking
Course Address: Blue River Memorial Park, 725 Lee Blvd, Shelbyville, IN 46176
All vehicles will park in the lot surrounding the softball fields just north of the course. There is additional parking adjacent to the soccer fields. Check out the map for more details.
- Medical & Emergencies
If you see an athlete or spectator experiencing a medical emergency, notify the closest NIRCA staff member or volunteer. Please do not call 911; NIRCA follows specific protocols for emergency events and has a full medical team on site to provide the most efficient and quick access/treatment.
- Race Course
We have an amazing group of volunteers supporting us as course marshals this year. To avoid any confusion - please allow course marshals and official event staff to direct runners on the course.
At the finish line, only athletes who recently finished their race can be in the finish area, which can become congested quickly & contribute to timing errors that delay/negatively impact results accuracy. You can look forward to congratulating your athlete(s) once they've left the finish chute.
- Race Day Info
All details you'll need, including schedule, results (when available), and course maps are available on the Event Coverage page.
Check out the Merchandise tent on-site at Nationals. There'll be a fresh batch of NIRCA gear and a special event t-shirt available for sale. Hurry - we always sell out, so come early!
Food trucks will be available at the course, including some snacks and lunch to hold you throughout the day.
Two professional photographers will be roaming the course on Saturday. They edit and pick the best of the best, so photos will be available on Flickr (flickr.com/clubrunning) within 2 weeks after the event.
Local Attractions
VisitShelbyCounty.com has a great list of things to do. Some of the highlights include:
- The Grover Museum offers visitor's and endless opportunity of fun and learning. Visit the Streets of Old Shelby and export yourself back in time to the late 1890's.
- The Strand Theatre has been a mainstay of the Shelbyville, Indiana cityscape since 1916. It is the only surviving “old” theatre in the city limits of Shelbyville.
- Take a hike on the Blue River Walking Trail. The 4.3 miles of trail connects Blue River Memorial Park (where the XC course is located) to downtown Shelybville and beyond following the Big Blue River.
- Check out this link for recommended bars and restaurants!
Ben Lambert, NIRCA