The event was held at the Bendigo Jockey Club, where primary students across multiple age groups took to the track at lightning speeds to try and outrun their opponents from 70 different schools.

Students aged 8-13 competed, with each age group categorised into four divisions.

Elite runners in the blue division, with red, green and gold divisions catering for students of all ability levels.

The 11/12 year-old groups competed over a 3km course with younger competitors taking on 2km.

Students vied for a top-12 placing to secure a spot to compete in the regional championships and a chance to progress to the State Cross Country Championships.

The School Sport Victoria event was held by the Bendigo Physical Education Committee at the Bendigo Jockey Club.

"The day ran very smoothly and today's event saw an increase in competitors who all had a great day," event convenor Wendy Ennor said.

In addition to the students, more than 1000 parents came along to cheer them on as they embarked on the cross country event.

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