The Gary Smith All-Comers XC Meet was formed for and by people that love, support, admire, and thank the late Gary Smith for his devoted and dedicated years as coach and teacher for the Worthington School district. Originally a road race through the streets of Worthington It's organizers are taking the event to the cross country course where Gary left a lasting impact on the countless athletes he coached both on and off the course!
This event is a fantastic and fun event to show the love to this man, and to sponsor scholarships to Thomas Worthington students.
The Gary Smith All-Comers XC Meet benefits a Scholarship fund in Gary's name. Scholarships are awarded to three deserving students each year. Gary spent his life standing up for those who would be considered by most to be among life's underdogs, and making sure they got a fair chance.
The Gary Smith All-Comers XC Meet was named in honor of a phenomenal teacher, coach and friend to many Central Ohio runners who passed away after battling cancer in 1998. The race, started by former Cardinals athletes and their families, is sponsored by the City of Worthington and the Gary Smith Race Committee, in conjunction with the Healthy Worthington Coalition.
During his 31 year career, Gary coached several state championship teams and athletes but was known most of all for his integrity and deep commitment to the well-being of his athletes and students. After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he died on the last day of school in 1998. Students brought candles, mementos, and signs to the fence in front of the track to grieve him. Eight hundred people attended his memorial service, where the idea for this race was born.
Donations to the event go to help make the event and scholarship sustainable! Any support is appreciated!
