A potential U.S. high school cross country season was dealt a colossal blow on Thursday as Nike Cross Nationals, one of two national championship events for U.S.-based preps, was canceled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, per an announcement. 

“This was not a decision taken lightly, but the health and safety of our athletes, families, fans and employees is our top priority,” a statement read.

Along with the cancelation of the national championship, the eight regional qualifying meets have also been called off.

No NXN in 2020 means that a team national champion will not be crowned this year. While any cancelation is hardly a surprise given the state of the country, the removal of an end-of-season championship does not bode well for the meets scheduled before it. For now, the 2020 Foot Locker Cross Country Championships-- held each year a week following NXN-- is still on the calendar.

Nike Cross Nationals has been held every year since 2004 in Portland, Oregon. Since 2014, the race has taken place at Glendoveer Golf Course.