The Jungle Run, South View’s annual night cross country meet, returns for its 19th year on Saturday, Aug. 31, with the finish line on the Tiger track at Randy Ledford Stadium. 

This year’s event will feature one significant change, the addition of a combined race for middle school runners, boys and girls.

South View cross country coach Jesse Autry said he’s trying to encourage middle school cross country because some areas of the state that lack it are falling behind in the sport.

Another new award will be presented to the Most Spirited Team at the meet for its overall enthusiasm and support of teammates during the competition.

With one day left before the signup closed last week, 61 teams had committed to the event this year.

A drawing card for entries is the fact the South View cross country course will host two major competitions later this year, the Patriot Athletic Conference meet and the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 4-A East Regional championship.

Some familiar powerhouses will be coming to South View to compete in this year’s race.

On the boys side top teams include Raleigh Broughton, Raleigh Leesville Road and Raleigh Millbrook.

Among the better region teams, Union Pines
is back.

Among smaller schools, a powerful Croatan team is back along with private school standout Fayetteville Christian.

Some of the better girls' teams in the meet include Carrboro, Wilmington Ashley and Cary Academy.

One traditional power that won’t be running this year is Pinecrest, which is unable to take part due to a schedule conflict.

Check-in for the meet begins at 4 p.m. The combined middle school race for boys and girls will start at 5:45 p.m., followed at 6:15 p.m. and then 6:55 p.m. by the developmental races for boys and girls respectively.

The two invitational races for smaller schools will be held at 6:55 p.m. and 7:40 p.m.

The championship races for boys and girls are set for 9 p.m. and 9:40 p.m.

The awards ceremony takes place in the football stadium stands beginning at 10:15 p.m.

Entry to the meet itself is free but spectator parking in the lots at South View is $5 per
carload.