Former Olympian Craig Virgin Speaks to Blackburn College Cross Country

The Blackburn College Cross Country Team was privileged to have former United States Olympic Team member Craig Virgin speak to the team last week. Virgin, a native of Lebanon, Illinois is a two-time World Cross Country Champion, the only American to win that championship, along with a multitude of other accomplishments including high school state championships, NCAA Champion, nine-time Big 10 Conference championships at the University of Illinois to name a few . Virgin spoke to the team about technique, strategy as well as providing motivation to the team members.

“Craig set the tone for what I hope will be a successful season, he is so very inspirational and the knowledge he provided the team that evening should help the guys and girls all season long,” said Blackburn Assistant Coach Mark Hopping.

Virgin provided quotes, tips and video footage of his past races and interacted with the team during the evening. “To have the only American World Champion come to Blackburn and interact with the team was very special and we were very fortunate to have him here,” added Hopping.

The Beavers will open the Cross Country season this Wednesday at the Millikin Invite in Decatur, Illinois with the race beginning at 5:30 p.m.