Cross Country Sundown Showdown
Carterville, United States • 17 Jul 2026
Event Overview
The Cross Country Sundown Showdown is an annual running event held in Carterville. The event follows a format similar to a high school cross country meet and takes place on a 5k course. The start and finish lines are located behind the Carterville Community Center.
Participants encounter a variety of surfaces during the race, though the terrain consists primarily of grass. Small sections of gravel and paved paths are also part of the course. To assist runners with navigation, a lead vehicle guides the field, and the course features color-coded markers for each mile:
- 5k (Mile 1 marked in red, Mile 2 in white, and Mile 3 in blue)
Participation and Scoring
The event is designed for both teams and individual runners. Teams must consist of 3 to 5 members, with the top three runners contributing to the team score. Scoring is based on finishing positions, where the place of each scoring runner is summed to determine the total. The team with the lowest point total wins. Divisions are available for male, female, and mixed teams. Solo runners are permitted, and the organizers provide assistance on the day of the race for individuals who wish to form a team but lack enough members.
Awards are presented to the top 20 female and top 20 male finishers. Additionally, the top team in each of the three divisions receives an award. Registration and bib pickup are organized at the Carterville Community Center. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.