The Oeiras International Cross Country (Portuguese: Crosse Internacional de Oeiras) is an annual cross country running competition that takes place in Oeiras, Portugal. Established in 2000,[1] it is usually held in mid-November and is traditionally the first competition of the IAAF's cross country season, which culminates each year in the IAAF World Cross Country Championships.[2]
The Oeiras Cross Country has featured athletes such as Kenenisa Bekele, Paul Tergat, Gebregziabher Gebremariam and Felix Limo.[3] The race can be of high importance to Portuguese athletes as the results are often used to decide the national squad for the European Cross Country Championships.[4][5] The men's race is 9 kilometres long, while the women's race is held over 5 km.[6] In addition to the professional senior races, there are also a number amateur races, including shorter cross country races for children, as well as junior and veteran races.[7]