scrunners.com has started a question and answer from officials in the sport on a variety of topics. Questions may be submitted to jolson@milesplit.us for consideration. A question and answer will be posted each Wednesday morning during the season. Name considerations for the weekly article can also be sent to scrunners.com at the above email address.
Question: Why are there so many course barriers and flags set up that are off limits? What challenges do meet directors have with enforcing the off limit areas?
Answer: The barriers and flags are on the course for the benefits of the runners. They help guide the runners and keep the spectators from interfering with them. Cross country allows the spectators to almost be within arms length from the runners. The off limits area allows a buffer zone for the finish area so the officials can accurately score the meet and for the safety of the runners as they finish.
As a meet official, spectators want to cross into off limit areas to get to certain points on the course. Our biggest challenge is keeping them out and our real only option is to yell. It is nothing personal, but once we let one through everyone wants to get through.
- Eric Cummings
Cummings serves as South Carolina Cross Country and Track and Field Coaches Association president and Riverside coach.