My name is Peyton VanDeest and I am a rising junior in the class of 2027 at Spearfish High School, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. When I graduate, I will have completed six years for Varsity Cross Country and Track & Field, competing against several Division 1-level current and future collegiate athletes.  

Over the last four years, I have placed in the Top 6 at State Division 1 (AA) cross country meet every year, including a runner-up finish during the 2023 season. I focus on the 800, 1600, and 3200 distances during the track season, and particularly love competing on the 4×800 and medley relay teams. So far, some personal highlights include: breaking my mother’s 1600 and 3200 high school records, which stood for over 20 years, as a 7th grader; being named to the Platinum List (best season times in North and South Dakota) in the 3200m my freshman year for winning the Howard Wood Relays in 10:28.98; and recording my 800m-3200m times on the Top 10 All Time in South Dakota (Top 4 in the 3200m). Additionally, after battling back from injury in my Sophomore XC season, I am particularly proud of my significant improvement in track compared to 2024 (800: ~8 seconds; 1600: ~8 seconds; 3200: ~13 seconds). 

Personal Bests: 

• XC, 5K: 17:04

• Outdoor Track, 800m: 2:11.86 

• Outdoor Track, 1600m: 4:50.88

• Outdoor Track, 3200m: 10:15.38 

*While I haven’t competed in a full indoor track season due to also playing Varsity Basketball, I plan to record more times next season.  

 In second grade, when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I answered that I wanted to be a runner. While my long-term professional goals have evolved since then, my passion for these sports has only increased. Like most athletes, I am goal-oriented, and I am constantly aspiring for the next level. Specifically, I plan to capture my first state title and to qualify for Nationals this cross country season. 

In addition to running, I volunteer for the Special Olympics and for the Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) organization. I started working with the Special Olympics in 7th grade and absolutely love it! We work with the athletes to help them learn activities such as basketball, soccer, track, and bowling. Additionally, I led planning this year for the CASA 5k, which is a local fundraiser to help raise money for disadvantaged kids. I have also played the piano for 10 years. I hope to continue many of these passions in college, as they help me develop important skills and characteristics. 

 Regarding academics, I have a 3.92 GPA and I am registered for two AP classes this school year as well as a dual-credit class through South Dakota State University. My interests include orthopedics and architectural design but believe that will continue to evolve. 

I am excited to compete at the collegiate level and among the very best this nation has to offer! I believe this sport is not just about how fast you are on the track or course; it is also about being the best teammate, student, and person you can be. I am fortunate to have a great team and family environment that has sculpted me into a driven and kind person, and I am ready to continue on that journey. For more information, please email me at peytonvandeest2027@gmail.com.