Cyclones Welcome Kersten Thorgaard

AMES, Iowa - The only running most of us did in fourth grade was on the playground. Iowa State sprinter Kersten Thorgaard was different; she was already running for an AAU team.

“I knew what I was capable of doing early on,” the freshman said. Thorgaard ran through middle school and in high school found herself with two state titles. Thorgaard has already proved her talent in the 600-yard run, by capturing third and fourth-place finishes in her past two showings, at the ISU Open and Husker Invitational. She doesn't worry about being new to collegiate competition.

“I think you can't be intimidated by the competition and you have to go into every race thinking that you can run with everyone,” Thorgaard said.

Thorgaard, who graduated from Ames High School, knew Iowa State was the right fit from the start.

“I wanted to go somewhere where I was most comfortable and where I thought I would fit in best. I felt like the program seemed like it was a good match for me,” Thorgaard said.

Sprints and hurdles coach Ronnie Williams has faith that the newcomer will be an asset to the Iowa State track and field team.

“I think she will potentially score in the conference for us, be a regional qualifier and be one of those fundamental building blocks of our women's program in the next four years,” Williams said. “Since I've gotten her from cross country season she has made huge strides. I was just so impressed with the way she ran. She has come a tremendous distance in such a short time.”

The Ames native competes in the 600-yard run indoors and will be challenged to run the 400-meter hurdles once the season moves outdoors.

“I'm excited, I like hurdles so it will be fun,” she said.

With the way her initial campaign is shaping up, Thorgaard has a lot to be excited about.

Iowa State University Athletics

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