Piedmont’s Kathryn Collins

Piedmont High School sophomore Kathryn Collins has been part of cross country since sixth grade, but her fifth season in the sport is about more than chasing times. It is also about strengthening relationships, learning resilience and continuing to grow as a competitor.

A varsity runner for the Lady Wildcats, Collins values the team culture that makes the demanding work of distance running meaningful.

“I really love all the girls and the tight bond we have. We always have hangouts and make Instagram reels together for our team page, @runwiththepxc.girls,” Collins said.

That connection gives Collins a support system as she prepares for another season. Her personal goal is clear: lower her best time.

“I would really like to get a new personal record this year!” Collins said.

Collins said endurance is one of her strengths on the course, while her starts and finishes remain areas she wants to sharpen.

“I have good endurance, but I am trying to work on my starts and finishes,” she said.

Her motivation begins at home. Collins looks to her father as an example of the discipline and faith she wants to carry into her own life.

“I get inspiration from my dad. He is very hard working and disciplined. He is a very strong Christian and someone I look up to,” Collins said.

She has also learned from her older sister, Claire Collins, a former teammate who now runs at the University of Tulsa.

“A former teammate that left an impression on me was my oldest sister, Claire Collins. She was so hard working and always pushed me to do my best. She is running at the University of Tulsa now,” Collins said.

Outside of running, Collins participates in FFA, where she enjoys service and public speaking. Looking ahead, she hopes to attend college and pursue a career in the medical field.

One lesson continues to guide her on and off the course: “One lesson that I learned last year was that even in adversity I can stay strong and push through.”