Kelsey Chmiel is returning to Scotland to defend her first International title, although the experience is sure to be different this year. Last year, Chmiel won the final Great Edinboro Challenge over a strong International field, with her 14:10 at 4K. However, after the conclusion of the meet, it was announced the venue was no longer interested in hosting the event.
While the U20 4K race will not be returning to the new location in 2019, the USA will still field an abbreviated junior team for an all-new 1500m Junior Co-Ed relay event in Stirling, Scotland. The American team will include Chmiel, Glenbard West (IL) High School's Katelynne Hart, Homestead (WI) High School's Drew Bosley and Knoxville Catholic (TN) High School's Jake Renfree.
The race is set for January 12.
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Of particular note, Chmiel dominated the 2018 4K race in Edinburgh and brought home gold in 14:10.
The Senior USA Team will be led by head coaches Mick Byrne of Wisconsin and 2004 World Cross Country Championships bronze medalist Kathy Butler. Aric Warren will serve as ATC and Alicia Lamb as LMT.
In contrast to previous international events featuring American athletes in Edinburgh, the new course features approximately 190 meters of elevation and will include beautiful views of Central Scotland and Stirling Castle.
Read more here.