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Celebrating Colorado's college-bound track and cross country athletes:</h3>
Kaleigh Kroeker joins a list of early signees from Colorado to the University of Colorado. Colorado Track XC file photo by Alan Versaw.
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Kaleigh Kroeker's personal best marks:
800 meters - 2:18.98
1600 meters - 5:02.61
3200 meters - 11:11.88
5K cross country - 17:43
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Tell us about the University of Colorado decision- is it more an academic decision, more an athletic decision, or a a lot of both?
The decision was definitely a lot of both. Academically, Boulder offers so many intriguing, competitive majors that I am very interested in. Athletically, who wouldn’t be drawn to CU? I am so excited to join and to contribute to one of the best cross country programs in the nation!
I have no doubt you had some signing options. Tell us a little about what tilted the table in favor of CU.
I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to visit other great schools. I met some wonderful coaches and people. However, when I first walked on the CU campus, believe it or not, I had that “feeling” everyone talks about. I could see myself living in Boulder, studying on campus, running with the team. By the first night of my official visit, I felt a part of the team. The coaches were very supportive throughout the recruiting process. The team was extremely welcoming and enthusiastic about the possibility of me being on the team. I feel so honored to have the opportunity to be surrounded by such greatness!
Has Coach Wetmore given you any indication of what event he sees you specializing in in track and field yet? Do you have any hopes set on a particular event?
He has not indicated a specific event in track and field yet. As long as I don’t have to throw or jump, I will be excited to try any event!
Will you be participating in any post-season cross country meets yet this year?
Yes, I will be running Nike Southwest at the end of the month and possibly a few road 5Ks. I’m definitely looking forward to the new Nike Southwest course! It seems fast!
As you look back on your high school career to date, what's your favorite moment?
There have been so many memorable moments in my high school career so far that it’s hard to pick just one! Representing Pine Creek and running alongside so many talented athletes will be an unforgettable experience. Being a part of the 2014 5A 4x400m state champion team, however, is something that will most likely stick with me for the rest of my life. It was such an honor, as a distance runner, to run with some of the fastest sprinters in the state, my own teammates. I actually was unaware of the fact that I would be running in the 4x400m final, I thought the 1600m was the only event I had to run that day! I will always remember the moment when my teammate, Heide Baron, crossed the line in first. Also, I have been so fortunate to have been coached by Max Oliver these past four years. I would not have accomplished all that I have without his unwavering support. Thank you so much, Coach!
Is there any unfinished business left in your high school career that you'd like to get accomplished in track season this spring?
Oh, there is definitely some unfinished business left to do on the track. Hopefully my running will the do the talking!
