Iowa Central to host 2025 Cross Country and Half Marathon Championships

Charlotte, NC – The NJCAA has announced Iowa Central Community College as its host for the 2025 NJCAA Division I, II, and III Men's and Women's Cross Country & Half Marathon Championships.   

Iowa Central will host the national meets at Lakeside Municipal Golf Course in Fort Dodge, IA, on November 8, 2025, and November 11, 2025. 

The NJCAA Division I, II, and III Men's and Women's Cross Country & Half Marathon Championships feature over 1,300 student-athletes and over 300 coaches participating from NJCAA member colleges. On average, 2,000 spectators from around the world attend these national championships.

"Iowa Central is honored and delighted to be awarded the opportunity to host the 2025 NJCAA Division I, II, and III Men's and Women's Cross Country and Half Marathon Championships," said Kevin Twait, Iowa Central Athletic Director. "We are anxious to welcome the entire country to our wonderful community of Fort Dodge, IA and onto our outstanding campus. We have had the distinct privilege of hosting these two wonderful championship events in years past and have received rave reviews from both the student-athletes and coaches who were fortunate enough to participate. The sight of the cross -country national championship is an iconic golf course here in Fort Dodge." 

The Lakeside Municipal Golf Course annually serves as the venue for the Iowa State High School Cross Country Championship and has previously hosted NJCAA National Championships in prior years. The entire campus community, the City of Fort Dodge (lead by Visit Fort Dodge), City Park and Recreation Department, and the local hotels and restaurants will play a role in creating a first-class experience for the student-athletes participating.  

"The NJCAA is excited to have these championships in Fort Dodge once again," stated Brian Luckett, NJCAA Senior Vice President for External Affairs & Development. "With their continued efforts and community involvement, these championships will constantly transform and grow allowing for continued years of memorable experiences for student-athletes and fans." 

Iowa Central previously hosted all three divisions for the NJCAA Cross Country and Half Marathon Championships in 2020.