"This sport originated in England where it flourishes unabated from September to April and where a whiff of nippy autumn air is a challenge to thousands of Britishers of all ages who run simply for pleasure and exercise during the cooler months. In America, where the colleges and clubs run from four miles to 10,000 meters, the sport is newer. Especially it is new in our high schools, where two-mile crosscountry runs in October and November have become popular in the East and some of the midwestern states. The charm of this race lies in the fact that the runners get away, for at least one season in the year, from the monotony of cinder track running, for the crosscountry courses are routed out in the country over hills, grass, roads and stone fences where contestants constantly encounter different running surfaces and changing autumnal scenery that helps them forget the mental and physical fatigue of the race. The sport is also a prime conditioner for track men. Distance men who run crosscountry in the fall will beat the other half-milers and milers in the spring. A thorough physical examination followed by a moderate but intelligent training program of from six to eight weeks, should be a required precaution. Runners should gain back the following day all weight lost during practice. Sleep and an occasional after-lunch nap are marvelous stamina-builders for this race."