The Culver High School cross country team made its annual pilgrimage to the Oregon Coast earlier this month, opening the 2026 season at the prestigious Ultimook Race — one of the most unique early-season competitions on the Oregon high school running calendar.
The Ultimook, held September 5 at Tillamook's Ultimook Running Camp, draws teams from across the state and offers a distinctive experience: races wind through coastal terrain that combines open grass, forest trails, and sandy ground, making it a true test of conditioning and versatility for young distance runners early in the season.
A Program Tradition
The trip to the Oregon Coast has become a hallmark of the Culver cross country program. Coaches use the Ultimook as both a competitive opener and a team-building experience — a chance for runners to bond, set early-season benchmarks, and get a feel for racing before the district schedule heats up.
For many Culver athletes, the Ultimook represents their first competitive race of the new school year, making it an important moment to gauge fitness built over the summer and identify areas to sharpen before Tri-Valley League competition begins in earnest.
A Strong Start to Fall Sports
Cross country is among several fall sports now underway for Jefferson County student-athletes. The Culver Bulldogs and Madras White Buffalos both fielded teams this season, with practices beginning in late August and competitions running through the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) district and state meets in late October and November.
Cross country is a demanding sport in a county where running culture runs deep — Jefferson County's open terrain, high desert air, and proximity to trails make it a natural fit for distance athletes who train year-round.
Booster Support Growing
Community support for Culver athletics has been evident this fall. Earlier this month, the Culver Bulldog Booster Club hosted a Back-to-School Cornhole Tournament at Shorty's Taphouse, raising funds to support the school district's athletic programs across all sports. Events like that one help bridge the gap between school budgets and the costs of uniforms, travel, and entry fees that competitive athletics require.
Full results from the Ultimook and subsequent meet coverage will be available through the Madras Bulletin as the fall season progresses. Parents, alumni, and community members interested in following Culver and Madras cross country can find schedules through the Oregon School Activities Association at osaa.org.