Katy Chapman of Oldham County Senior Sendoff


Katy Chapman

Oldham County


What was your most memorable meet and why?

This years state meet. That feeling of everyone coming together at that finish line when we realized we had won was incredible. It was so awesome to see my teammates who battled with injuries throughout the season come back and race their hardest when it mattered. Sharing that feeling with my team, coaches, and family was something I will remember for a long time. 

Where did you face your biggest competition?
I have been extremely lucky during my running career to get to run against amazing girls. I think this year's Great American race stands out the most because our team was put in the championship race. We had the opportunity to race against some of the best teams and individuals in the country.  


Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?

I've been blessed to be a part of a team that through the past 3 years has placed 3rd, 2nd, and 1st at the state meet. Seeing my team improve each year was amazing because all season long we worked towards one goal, so its special to finally achieve that goal. Along with that, running my PR of 18:41 at Great American stands out because I finally broke 19:00 minutes for cross country. 


If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

I would try not to be so hard on myself! I always get so nervous before every race that its all I can think about. Instead of focusing on the nerves that come with racing and dwelling on bad races/hard workouts I would want to remind myself to relax and just enjoy the process.



What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

Getting out of my own head. So much of running is mental so learning to be confident in myself as a competitor, and remembering to trust my training was an important thing for me learn.


What will you miss the most?

My team! I will miss the traditions and the atmosphere so much. The support of my team, the parents and the community of Oldham County is incredible.


Do you have any advice for younger athletes?

Go to all the pasta dinners, breakfasts, bonfires, and movie nights!!  High School cross country is an amazing experience, so enjoy every part of it! And something I think is always important to remind yourself of- never let running become a chore. 

What are your post-high school or college plans?

I will be continuing my academic and running career at Eastern Kentucky University. I plan to study pre-physical therapy. 


Who would you like to say thank you to?

I would like to say thank you to my coaches for continuously pushing me, and believing in me. To my parents for always being at the finish line, for traveling to all of my races (even when they are eight hours away), and for always being my biggest fans. And last but not least, to all of my wonderful teammates- thank you for making OCXC so special, and for always reminding me what this sport is about.