NIRCA Cross Country Open
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Event overview
The NIRCA Cross Country Open is a 6K race held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Blue River Country Course in Shelbyville, Indiana. The event is staged the same day as the National Intercollegiate Running Club Association National Championships and takes place on the Blue River cross country course. Spikes may be worn at the runner’s discretion. The race will be held in rain or shine. Merchandise, including a limited-edition event tee and NIRCA-branded gear, will be available for sale at the event.
Registration, fees and logistics
The listed entry fee for the community 6K is $30. Pricing increases after October 31, 2026, and online registration closes two days before the event. Late or race-day registration will be available at the course. Parking at Blue River Cross Country Course, 725 Lee Boulevard, Shelbyville, IN 46176, is free. Special hotel blocks were reserved for participants and spectators with a cutoff date of October 15 for those blocks.
Challenge and volunteering
A 12K/14K Challenge allows NIRCA athletes to combine the Open 6K with a collegiate race for a total of 12K or 14K; the top three fastest combined times receive podium places. Clubs must register collegiate entries by November 1, and Open 6K registration must be completed by November 7 to participate in the challenge. Volunteers for the collegiate championship races are offered complimentary Open 6K entry codes and event swag for certain roles such as team check-in, course marshal, and finish line. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
