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Cross-country

Posted by SR on October 12, 2004

In Reply to: Cross-country posted by ESC on October 12, 2004

: : : Hello,
: : : In Tuchman's book "Stilwell" it says that stilwell participated in West Point cross-country team. I understand that it's a kind of sport you do outside in the fields etc., but is it skiing? running? driving? I mean, is it possible to know that from the west Point context?
: : : Thanks

: :
: : Well, in the UK, 'cross-country' would certainly mean running. I assume it would mean the same in the US, but I am ready to be corrected on that point.

: : DFG

: I know nothing about sports. But Merriam-Webster says:
: Main Entry: cross-country
: Function: noun
: cross-country racing or skiing

Cross-country is literally what it sounds like, running or skiing across the country. Cross-country skiing is called 'Nordic' skiing. Cross=country running is similar to marathon running and is very popular in high school and college athletics here in the U.S. In this particular question, I believe that the author is referring to the West Point Cross-country running team.

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