35th Three Course Challenge
Seaside High School
September 20th 2025
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!!!
What is the Three Course Challenge?
What is the Three Course Challenge?
The Three Course Challenge is a premier cross-country event hosted by Seaside High School at Camp Rilea, located just north of Seaside, Oregon off hwy 101. Since its inception in 1990, the race has become a beloved tradition, with over 50,000 runners crossing the finish line over its storied history. Guided by its motto, "Celebrating the Sport of Cross Country," the event offers participants an unforgettable experience that combines competition, camaraderie, and fun.
Runners from middle school to high school, compete on one of three challenging high school courses or our middle school course.
Easy (White Flags): 4,300 meters with a gradual incline.
Moderate (Blue Flags): 5,000 meters featuring water crossings and a steep uphill Elk Trail.
Difficult (Red Flags): 5,000 meters with three steep hills, including the iconic Butterfly Hill and Elk Trail.
Middle School (Yellow Flags): 3000 meters run on grass, dirt, sand roads, and trails. No pavement.
Chip Timing by Eclectic Edge Racing: Ensures real-time, accurate results.
Awards: Top 10 finishers in each division receive medals, with plaques and medals for top teams also.
Entertainment: Live performances by The Last Regiment Drum Corps energize participants running and warming up.
Lodging options: We offer team lodging options on Camp Rilea. Spend the weekend on the Oregon Coast!
Teams staying overnight at Camp Rilea will be assigned accommodations based on group size and availability. Lodging is $20 per bed, and floor space is free if additional room is needed beyond the bed count.
Teams are separated by gender, and both a male and female chaperone are required for coed teams.
A Google Form will be sent out over the summer for coaches to submit lodging requests. Housing assignments will be shared at least one week before race day.
Other things that make us special:
Friday night Spaghetti Dinner at Seaside High School. Ice Cream Social with a T-shirt exchange Friday night for those teams staying at Camp Rilea.
Saturday morning there is an optional Pancake Breakfast to kickstart race day.
With its combination of challenging courses, rich history, and community spirit, the Three Course Challenge stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cross country. If you are a coach thinking about bringing your team please reach out to us for more information.
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