Runners of all ages will be competing just 15 minutes apart when the Northern High Schools Sports Association's inter-high takes place at Kings Meadows High School while Symmons Plains is staging the Tasmanian Primary All Schools Cross Country.

Athletics Tasmania anticipates 145 schools will provide about 2500 students aged 9-12 to run either 2 or 3-kilometre distances from 11.30am through to 1.30pm at Symmons.

AT executive officer Gabby Steele stressed the inclusive and participation-based nature of the event.

"We are really proud to promote this as an event for all, irrespective of ability or ambitions," she said.

"The primary event is open to all students and is about having fun, being healthy and staying active."

After constructive feedback last year, AT is introducing a wave-start for the 9 and 10 year age groups.

"This year will see a record number of schools that have grown their numbers of participating students, which is a great achievement and something we look to maintain in coming years," Steele added.

"The support and awareness of schools has been incredibly positive and appreciated.

The event serves as the trials for the School Sport Australia Cross Country Championships to be held in Wollongong in August.

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