WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. — Blair Bartlett, a standout runner from Lawrenceville, achieved a remarkable feat at the Nike Northeast Regionals by breaking the state record for high school girls at Bowdoin Park. Clocking in at an impressive 17:01, Bartlett’s performance not only secured her victory but also earned her a spot at the Nike Cross Nationals, scheduled for December 6 in Portland, Oregon.
Facing some of the nation’s top distance runners, including two-time Nike Regional champion Paige Sheppard and former Massachusetts state champion Greta Hammer, Bartlett demonstrated exceptional skill throughout the race. Coming in second was Mackenzie Skelly from Penn Charter, finishing in 17:47, followed closely by Kendra Williamson at 17:55.
Bartlett’s time of 17:01 marks the fastest recorded by a New Jersey female runner at Bowdoin Park, surpassing the previous record of 18:00 set by Charlotte Bednar in 2019. “It means so much to me,” Bartlett said, reflecting on her win and the significance of breaking the state record. “I was just really grateful to get out here today and run on such a historic course.”
Dominating the Competition
Bartlett’s performance was a testament to her training and competitive spirit. In this race, she took command early on, building a substantial lead over her opponents. “Through 2500 meters, Bartlett had a 16-second lead over Skelly,” noted her coach, Derrhyl Duncan. “It was great seeing her go out there and just say, ‘I’m gonna run it the way I’ve been running it.'”
Her strategy of taking the lead early has been consistent throughout the season. With seven previous victories, Bartlett has demonstrated her ability to maintain and extend her lead. “I didn’t really have my eye on a time,” Bartlett explained. “I was really just trying to reach that hard effort.” Her experience on the challenging course, including navigating hills, contributed to her success.
Duncan expressed pride in Bartlett’s performance, stating, “We’re extremely proud, but we aren’t surprised. She works extremely hard and races incredibly well.” The coach emphasized his confidence in her ability to handle the pressure of this high-stakes competition, noting her excitement to compete against the best in the Northeast.
Looking Ahead to Nationals
As Bartlett prepares for the Nike Cross Nationals, she remains focused on the experience rather than the outcome. “I’m just excited to have the opportunity to go out there with such great competition,” she said. With her confidence soaring, she aims to embrace the challenge while maintaining a positive outlook.
Bartlett’s journey from playing tennis just a year ago to now being mentioned alongside elite runners, such as three-time national champion Katelyn Tuohy, underscores her rapid ascent in the sport. Her determination and hard work have positioned her as a favorite in the upcoming national championships.
The Nike Cross Nationals will be held at Glendoveer Golf Course in Portland, Oregon, where Bartlett will compete against the country’s finest. With her record-breaking performance and fearless mindset, she is poised to make a significant impact on the national stage.
