The message reads, in part:
“Today, Cross the Nation is being launched in many regions around the country, uniting a record number of participants representing different generations, professions and interests. It unites everyone who is actively engaged in sports, is bound by the values of physical fitness and healthy living, and those who strive to demonstrate their mastery, character and determination to win in a fair competition.
It is important that every year, the geography of our nation’s largest athletic event is expanding and its traditions are becoming stronger. I am confident that these competitions will also become a bright, unforgettable celebration and bring deserved success to the strongest competitors, as well as opening a path towards sports for thousands of Russians.”
Cross the Nation is the largest athletic event in the Russian Federation, with races ranging between 1 km and 12 km.
Running Day in Russia’s regions is traditionally held in two stages. The first stage of competitions occurs on the third Sunday in September. Its winners and runners-up receive the right to participate in the Cross the Nation final, held in Moscow one week after the first stage.