One of the longest-running cross country meets in Alabama will take place for the 41st consecutive year today as Athens Bible School hosts the Athens Bible Cross Country Invitational.

Athens Bible athletic director and cross country coach Bill Murrell said he believes the ABS meet is the longest-running cross country invitational in the state, which is a tribute to the many volunteers, students, parents and grandparents who have made the meet possible.

“This even takes a lot of helpers, and we have a lot of helpers for (today),” Murrell said. “Our parents, students and even grandparents of runners are coming out to help park cars and do other things it takes to make the invitational happen.”

The event will take place at the Athens Sportsplex.

“I want to thank (Athens Park and Recreation Director) Ben Wiley and his crew for helping us be able to put on this event,” Murrell said. “They always do a great job.”

There are 37 teams participating in the event, with 736 runners pre-registered to compete. The races will be divided between Class 1A-3A and Class 4A-7A. The junior high race will be at 4 p.m., with the varsity girls race taking place at 4:30 and the varsity boys race taking place at 5.

Local schools participating are Athens Bible, Athens High, Ardmore, Clements, East Limestone, Elkmont, Lindsay Lane Christian and Tanner.

“It should be a great event once again, and we are looking forward to it,” Murrell said.