Rooted in nationally recognized programs like Lipscomb and Indiana, and showcasing standout performances on the NCAA stage with the Ohio State Buckeyes, the girls from Central Ohio have consistently thrived under the bright lights. In recent years, powerhouse teams such as Gahanna Lincoln, Hilliard Davidson, and Olentangy Liberty have dominated the region, though individual stars have emerged from all corners. With a history of success, the future looks even more promising, as the region boasts top-tier talent and nationally competitive teams. Central Ohio is home to reigning state champions in the 1600m, 3200m, and 4x800m, with these athletes ready to defend their titles and chase even greater achievements this season.

Those who attended the most recent OHSAA Outdoor Track & Field State Championships witnessed an extraordinary display of national talent, as expected. However, the women's 1600m race delivered what was arguably the most thrilling finish of the day. Olentangy Orange sophomore (now junior) Brooke Chapman, a 2x All-American in the 2K steeplechase, appeared headed for an impressive runner-up spot. But Chapman had other plans. In the final 150 meters, she found a new gear, relentlessly closing the gap on Westlake senior Sarah Peer to claim the state title by less than half a second.

Central Ohio girls have excelled at taking their talents to the next level, with the region sending athletes to top national programs like Indiana and Lipscomb in recent years. Both schools are highly competitive, with the Lipscomb women’s team qualifying for the most recent NCAA Cross Country Championships. Indiana has welcomed Olentangy Liberty alum Gracie Sprankle and Gahanna alum Alyssa Shope, while Lipscomb added Thomas Worthington alum Lydia Miller and Big Walnut alum Colbi Borland. Sprankle made significant contributions to Indiana’s women’s teams during her time, and although Shope has yet to post results, likely due to injury, she still has time to showcase her talent. However, it's the Lipscomb women who have truly stood out, showcasing Central Ohio’s strength. Lydia Miller has been a force, earning numerous All-Conference honors, two ASUN conference titles, and qualifying for both the NCAA Cross Country and Track & Field Championships. Colbi Borland has been equally impressive, collecting multiple All-Conference honors, claiming one ASUN conference title, and qualifying for the NCAA East Preliminary Round in two events. Borland, coming off a strong 51st-place finish at the prestigious Nuttycombe meet, looks poised to help lead the Lady Bison back to the NCAA Cross Country Championships this year.

Let's highlight a few more standout individuals from Central Ohio who have excelled at the NCAA level, along with the regional dominance of two of the programs mentioned earlier. First, we have India Johnson, the 2016 Ohio State Cross Country Champion from Hilliard Davidson, who went on to compete for two of the top women's programs in the NCAA: Michigan State and Colorado. Johnson has earned numerous honors and competed at multiple NCAA Championship meets. Another Big Ten athlete, Allison Johnson, formerly of Mount Gilead and now running for Penn State, has also made her mark by earning All-Big Ten honors and qualifying for the NCAA East Preliminary Round. Lastly, there's hometown star Daniella Santos, who competed for Hilliard Bradley before becoming a standout at Ohio State. Since joining the Buckeyes, Santos has earned two All-Big Ten honors in cross country and achieved two top-70 finishes at the NCAA Cross Country National Championships.

Shifting back to the present, two of the most dominant girls' programs in Central Ohio—Hilliard Davidson and Gahanna Lincoln—deserve recognition. What ties these programs together? Their exceptional coaching. Hilliard Davidson is led by Nathan King, while Ryan Callihan helms Gahanna Lincoln. The Wildcats have consistently excelled in both cross country and track, regularly qualifying teams to the state championships and capturing the 2023 4x800m state title. Gahanna Lincoln, meanwhile, has been a force on the track, winning 11 consecutive 4x800m conference titles and 12 straight OCC team titles. Together, these programs have sent athletes to prestigious schools like Indiana, Michigan State, Louisville, Ohio State, and many other Division I programs across the country. As the legacy of Central Ohio girls' track and cross country continues to grow, we’ll be sure to follow their ongoing success.

In conclusion, Central Ohio has firmly established itself as a hub for elite girls' track and cross country talent, with athletes and teams excelling both regionally and nationally. From thrilling state championship finishes to standout performances at the collegiate level, the region's legacy is built on dedication, top-tier coaching, and a deep pool of talent. As programs like Hilliard Davidson and Gahanna Lincoln continue to dominate, and individual stars shine on the NCAA stage, the future for Central Ohio girls' track and field looks brighter than ever. This region’s success story is far from over, and we look forward to seeing its next chapter unfold.