Woodward Park Situated on the northern edge of the city, Fresno's scenic Woodward Park has been the home of FPU cross country teams since 1969. The first major NAIA championship was contested in the park in 1972 when FPU hosted the District Three Championship. Over the past three decades Woodward Park has hosted more major high school, community college and university cross country competitions and championships than any other course on the West Coast. There are several reasons for the park's popularity according to Bill Cockerham, former FPU coach and longtime running enthusiast.
Location is the most obvious one.
It is in the middle of the state and, therefore, is an easy commute for people. That is due, in part, to the cooperation of City Parks authorities. They have been very cooperative. They keep the course graded and have solved the drainage problems in a couple of spots. They have also enhanced the course with mile-marker posts, maps and results boards.