Over the 2023-24 school year, Hellgate has had many athletes sign to different universities across the country to continue competing in various sports for a college career. Two of these athletes are runners Kaitlyn Skinner and Sophia Miller. The pair have been competing together throughout high school, but especially came together last year when running the 800m together. 

“It’s been really great to get to work with [Kaitlyn] these past few years. I think we both really push each other to be better and that’s why it works so well,” said Miller. The pair is dominating state rankings, leading in both the 800 and 1600, having recently run 5:01 at the Archie Roe meet in Kalispell, being separated by only .06 seconds. Additionally, the 4×400 relay team that they are a part of currently leads the state with a time of 4:01. 

The two have recently signed to the Montana State University Bobcats to run cross country and track and field of the NCAA D1 team. “It’s always been a dream of mine to be able to keep running at the D1 level,” says Miller. “I’ve worked really hard to get here and it’s just so nice to actually see it paying off. It’s such a good feeling.” 

Skinner has also put in tremendous effort to make this happen. “It’s definitely been a tough process,” she said. “First, just being able to run the times is hard enough, but finding the right fit was also a challenge. I’m really glad I was able to connect with MSU and I think it’s the right choice for me.” 

Nearing the end of their final high school season, both Skinner and Miller are excited to see what comes next. “I’m really excited to keep running. The team is super great and I’m very glad I can be a part of that.” Said Miller