Senior Hayley Kitching of Penn State Track and Field has been honored as the USTFCCCA Mid-Atlantic Region Women's Track Athlete of the Year following a record-breaking outdoor season. Kitching shattered the program's 1500 meters record by nearly five seconds and won the 800 meters at the Virginia Challenge. She set multiple program records during her season, including in the Sprint Medley Relay and the 4x800, and claimed the Big Ten title in the 800 meters. Her historic finish in the NCAA 800m final earned her First-Team All-American honors, becoming the first Penn State athlete to break the two-minute barrier.

By the Numbers
  • Kitching's record-breaking time in the 1500 meters was 4:05.81.
  • Her 800 meters time at the NCAA final was 1:57.65, the second-fastest in NCAA women's history.
Yes, But

Kitching's incredible achievements come amidst fierce competition, as highlighted by her finishing second to Arkansas' Sanu Jallow, who set a new collegiate record of 1:56.85.

State of Play
  • Kitching has established herself as a leading contender in collegiate track and field.
  • This recognition further solidifies Penn State's status in women's track and field on a national level.
What's Next

Kitching's impressive performances position her as a strong candidate for future national championships and potential Olympic trials as she prepares for the next season.

Bottom Line

Hayley Kitching鈥檚 achievements not only elevate her personal record but also raise the profile of Penn State Track and Field, showcasing a legacy of excellence and setting the stage for future success.