UAB Cross Country announces its 2026 schedule, marking Head Coach Travis Pope's fourth season. The team, featuring four returning upperclassmen, will compete in four regular season meets, including the Foothills Invitational in Oxford, where they placed third last year. They will also defend their title at the Firehawk Invitational and participate in the Joe Piane Invitational in South Bend, Indiana, marking their first return to the venue since 2013. The season includes the Crimson Classic in Tuscaloosa and concludes with NCAA regional competition in Tallahassee.

By the Numbers
  • UAB finished third at the Foothills Invitational last season.
  • The team is the defending champion of the Firehawk Invitational, with all four top-10 finishers returning.
State of Play
  • The Blazers are gearing up for a competitive season with multiple returning athletes.
  • They will compete at five notable meets, culminating in NCAA postseason races.
What's Next

Upcoming events include the Foothills Invitational and the Firehawk Invitational, both key meets for establishing team momentum. The performance at these meets will set the tone for their subsequent competitions, including the American Conference Championships.

Bottom Line

UAB Cross Country aims to leverage their returning talent for a successful 2026 season, seeking strong showings in early meets to build toward postseason aspirations and potential NCAA Championship qualifications.