YORK COUNTY, S.C. October 2, 2024 — The NCAA announced on Wednesday that Winthrop University and Visit York County have been selected to host the 2027 NCAA Division II Regional Cross Country Championships. As a key qualifier for the NCAA Championships, this prestigious event brings together the top men’s and women’s cross-country programs from across the Southeast.
This marks the third time Winthrop and Visit York County will host a NCAA Regional Cross Country Championships. The 2018 and 2024 event attracted approximately 1,200 athletes from more than 40 schools to York County.
“Hosting an event of this caliber for the third time further establishes York County as a destination for Cross Country,” said Andy Clinton, CEO of Visit York County. “This selection by the NCAA is a reflection of our team's commitment and the outstanding work of people like Cortney Peterson at Visit York County, Head Coach Ben Paxton, his staff, and all of the volunteers who made our previous events a success.”
The joint bid to host the 2027 regional championship was submitted by Visit York County and Winthrop University in early 2023. The NCAA reviewed over 1,200 submissions for championships across 47 states to be held between 2026 and 2028. They announced more than 240 host site selections—York County is one of five destinations in SC that were awarded an NCAA championship.
“We are excited to host another NCAA championship at the Winthrop Farm,” said Ben Paxton, Head Cross Country Coach at Winthrop University, “This is a testament to what I’ve known since I started here over 30 years ago. The area is excellent for Cross Country with the terrain, climate and the great York County hospitality!”
The Regional championship at Winthrop Lake promises a stunning backdrop and top-tier competition. In the months leading up to the championship, Visit York County, in collaboration with the City of Rock Hill, will work to ensure an exceptional experience for participants and visitors alike.
For more information, visit NCAA.COM
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About Visit York County
As the destination marketing organization (DMO) for York County, South Carolina, Visit York County exists to raise the profile and boost the economy of York County through tourism and destination marketing while also contributing to the quality of life for residents. For additional information, visit www.VisitYorkCounty.com.
About Winthrop University
As a public, comprehensive institution located in the heart of the Carolinas, Winthrop provides an education that blends liberal arts, professional programs, global awareness and civic engagement with an emphasis on lifelong professional and personal development. The goal is for students to learn to be critical thinkers, informed citizens, and collaborative problem-solvers. Winthrop grants 47 undergraduate degrees and 22 graduate programs and certificates across four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business Administration, the Richard W. Riley College of Education, and the College of Visual and Performing Arts.
