Athlete of the Week: Running Strong

SARATOGA SPRINGS – This week Saratoga TODAY would like to recognize sophomore runner Kelsey Chmiel. This past cross-country season, Kelsey’s list of athletic accomplishments is both extensive and impressive. She finished the season undefeated in dual meets. Kelsey also broke a course-record four times (Great Meadows Invitational, Wing Foot Cross Country Invitational, Suburban Council Championships, and NYS Public High School Championships), and was crowned champion at each of these meets. Kelsey was also crowned champion at two other events (Sectionals and NY State Federation). On Saturday, November 26, Kelsey finished as runner-up in the Nike Regional Cross Country meet at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, New York. The arguable icing on the cake for this amazing athlete was qualifying for the Nike National Cross Country Meet, taking place in Portland, Oregon on Saturday, December 3. According to coach Linda Kranick, Chmiel is “a pleasure to coach, and is a true team player.” Chmiel also excels in the classroom. On top of her strenuous athletic schedule, she has managed to earn an extremely impressive 98.79 GPA. This season’s accomplishment both on the racecourse and in classroom indicates that Chmiel provides a superb example of a determined student athlete. Congratulations on all of your success Kelsey! It’s very much deserved!