The future of cross-country running is at a crossroads, and the story of Megan Keith, a British athlete, embodies this pivotal moment.
For Megan, the rolling hills and muddy ditches of cross-country courses are her sanctuary. She's a true cross-country enthusiast, but a recent realization has shifted her focus.
"Cross-country has always been my passion, but I had to broaden my horizons if I wanted to make it as a professional athlete," Megan, 23, shared with BBC Sport.
The track and road events, with their lucrative sponsorship deals and British Athletics funding, beckoned. So, Megan made the transition, achieving success with a European 10,000m bronze and Olympic and World Championship appearances.
But her heart remains in cross-country. Last month's European Cross Country silvers and her leadership role at the upcoming World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, are testaments to that.
However, cross-country's glory days seem to be fading. The number of participants at the elite level has dwindled, and the event's prestige has diminished.
"The sport has changed dramatically since my time," reflects Tim Hutchings, the last British man to win a World Cross Country medal. "The lucrative circuit I knew is no more."
The decline is multifaceted. A lack of financial incentives, the shift towards amateurism in the 1980s, and the dominance of African runners have all contributed.
But here's where it gets controversial: despite its waning popularity, cross-country still thrives within dedicated athletics communities. Over 5,000 people ran at the English National Cross Country Championships last year, and monthly events routinely attract thousands.
And this is the part most people miss: cross-country courses offer unique challenges with varying distances at each event. It's a true test of an athlete's versatility and resilience.
So, what's next for cross-country?
World Athletics president Lord Coe has been advocating for its inclusion in the Winter Olympics, with a potential debut in 2030. Additionally, Britain is formulating bids to host international cross-country championships, aiming to revive the sport's glory.
"We have a rich history in cross-country, and hosting more events could be a game-changer," says Eamonn Martin, English Cross Country Association secretary.
Megan agrees, believing it will bring much-needed respect and exposure to the sport.
"Cross-country is the purest form of distance running. With more opportunities, I believe we'll see a resurgence," she said.
The future of cross-country is uncertain, but with potential Olympic inclusion and increased hosting opportunities, it might just be on the cusp of a revival.
What do you think? Is cross-country due for a comeback, or has its time passed? Share your thoughts in the comments!
