Border Telegraph | Sport | The Stars and Stripes

Friday, 9th May, 2008

Published: Wednesday, 19th March, 2008 11:00

The Stars and Stripes

By David Knox

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GALA HARRIERS are going all stars and stripes ahead of this month’s IAAF World Cross Country Championships in Edinburgh.

Athletes from almost 80 nations will descend on Holyrood Park in just over a week’s time.

And the local Harriers are lending their stateside support on the good ol’ US of A.

Clubs and schools from across the country have taken part in an Adopt-a-Nation scheme organized by Scottish Athletics.

As well as getting to meet some of their country’s runners and supporting them at the March 30 races, the adoptees can also nominate a member to carry a flag at the opening ceremony.

Neil Renton from Gala Harriers told the Border Telegraph: “I have to admit we were hoping for one of the top African nations when we entered the programme but we’re happy enough with America.

“It will give our members the chance to meet with the American team management and see how they all prepare for such a big race.

“A lot of us will be up at Holyrood Park on the Sunday to cheer on our team.”

The 36th running of the IAAF World Cross Country Championships is expected to be a three-way race between the Ethiopians, Kenyans and Eritreans for the men’s gold medal.

And all eyes will be on Kenenisa Bekele, if he turns up, to see if he can win his sixth title.

Although America has never produced a medallist in the men’s competition, Deena Drossin twice claimed silver in the women’s event in 2002 and 2003.

And the Galashiels athletes are hoping for another podium placed yank next Sunday.

Neil added: “I think our best hope is Dathan Ritzenhein in the men’s race – he should get amongst the Africans and is capable of causing a surprise.”

Lucy Morris from Earlston will carry the USA flag at the opening ceremony.

Around 60 of the competing nations have already found adopted clubs and schools.

But a last-minute appeal has been made to find friends for some of the lesser-known competing countries such as Kazakhstan, Nepal, Palestine and Venezeula.

Kate Horne from Scottish Athletics told us: “There is still time to register a club or a school for the project.

“As well as receiving a fact sheet about your country, one of your children will also get the chance to meet with the runners at the Athletes Village.”

Those interested should email Katie.horne@scottishathletics.org.uk

Gala Harrier Caroline McDermott has been assigned as the official team attaché for Morocco during the championships.

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