Balch Commits to Missouri

 

This past fall was a good one for Bishop Carroll senior, Kaelyn Balch.  She won her league meet, her regional meet, the 5A state meet and followed those accomplishments up by a strong showing at the NXN Heartland Regional where she crossed the line in 14th with a 5K time of 18:40.27.  The winter was just as good to Balch as she committed to be a Missouri Tiger starting next fall.  "I really felt as home at Missouri.  I love the team and the coach is really good," said Balch.  Coach Joe Lynn took over the program after a five year stent at Division II powerhouse, Grand Valley State.  In his first year, he brought the men's program to their first national ranking in 12 years. The women's team, which consisted of six underclassman, finished 16th out of 31 teams at the Midwest Regional. "He just took over the girls program and is looking to do great things with it, and I can't wait to get on board with it."  Mizzou topped the list that included Wichita State, Oklahoma State, Kentucky, Colorado State, and Texas Christian.  "I am looking forward to competing at the college level and just seeing what college has in store for me. I am really excited for this next step in my life and in my running career." 

Balch, who led her time to a dominating victory at the XC State meet this fall, has big goals for the spring.  "My goals for this track season are to win state track in my distance events as a team."  As far as times she wishes to run, Balch is hoping to break 10:45 for 3200 meters and go under the five minute barrier for 1600 meters. "My training is going really well. I took three weeks off after cross country and have been back for about a month."  Balch is contemplating running indoors, but is leaning towards an easy winter in preparation for the outdoor season. 

Missouri is picking up great talent in Balch.  She currently holds personal bests of 5:10.44 for 1600m, 11:06.72 for 3200m, and 14:01.00 for 4000m.  She has won two consecutive 5A state titles for cross country and has a three second and two third place finishes at the state track meet. "I am really happy my decision has been made. A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and now I can my senior year and focus on my final track season in high school."  Time will tell what the spring has in store for Balch, but next fall she will be donning the black and gold of the Missouri Tigers. 

More Coverage

Kaelyn Balch's Athlete Profile

University of Missouri Team Page

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