‘All-time best runners': Castelli closes decorated career
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The O'Gorman Track and Field team has produced plenty of talent over the years and that includes senior standout, Libby Castelli. The distance runner closed her decorated career last weekend, as one of the top runners in state history.
Libby Castelli had a busy few days at the State Track and Field Meet, running the 800, 1600, 3200 and 1600 Meter Sprint Medley for O'Gorman.
'I just take it one race at a time. I had four races this weekend and just taking it one race at a time, then focusing on recovering and getting to the next race,' Castelli said.
Castelli not only won each event, but she set two state records and received the All-Class Gold Medal in four of the races.
'What a great weekend for her to cap her career,' coach Aaron Strand said. 'Winning four gold medals, running some state record times. She just puts in all that hard work and it's fun to see it pay off for her.'
The victories mark back-to-back years of winning the three distance races. That success has helped her earn a spot with North Carolina Track and Field Team next year.
'So excited for her. So excited to watch her as she goes on into college and stuff,' Strand said. 'She's definitely one of the state's all-time best runners.'
And as she takes her talents to next level, Castelli leaves behind a legacy that she hopes will inspire more girls to hit the track running.
'She's one of the best in the history of South Dakota, so it's great for our younger girls to see that,' Strand said. 'It gives them something to strive for. They got to see all of her hard work pay off.'
'South Dakota isn't a big state, we don't have as many people, but we have some of the best talent, like some really good young girls,' Castelli said. 'I think the future here is really bright, so I hope to just inspire the other girls. They can do great things too.'
Castelli set two state records at the state meet, including the 800 meter and the 1600 meter sprint medley.
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