Blood chooses college: Oregon
High school star to run for one-time powerhouse

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By David Filkins
Posted Thursday, 10 November, 2005

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Nicole Blood has more than foot speed in common with her favorite runner, the late Steve Prefontaine.

Blood, one of the country's fastest high school runners, will sign a national letter of intent Friday to attend the University of Oregon next fall. The Saratoga Springs High School senior will join an upstart team with a rich tradition and a new coach.

It's also her idol's alma mater.

Experts in running circles aren't surprised by her choice or the fact she was offered a full scholarship by the historic program. The three-time state and federation cross country champion is one of the most coveted athletes in the history of the sport.

"No doubt about it," Running USA media coordinator Ryan Lamppa said. "The program is on an upward trend. This decision will be good for (Blood) and the school. It's going to help them get top athletes because she is one of the best in the country."

Blood, 17, is a two-time Millrose Games high school mile champion and won the 2005 junior national championship at 5,000 meters. She ran faster than any high school girl in the country at four distances last year. Blood is running unattached this fall after leaving her high school team for undisclosed personal reasons last spring.

Lamppa said the decision was likely looked upon favorably by coaches at Oregon, as well as other schools trying to sign Blood. North Carolina, Michigan, Providence and Villanova were among the running powerhouses showing interest.

"Many high school runners end up burning out because they race too much," Lamppa said. "It's one thing to be good in high school, but it's better to be good in college. Trying to be a national class runner is tough, but she should be fresh."

Blood has run sparingly this fall, mostly in open races against college athletes. She has consistently placed in the top 15. That bodes well for Oregon, which hired coach Vin Lananna earlier this year. He transformed Stanford into the top combined men's and women's program from 1992-2002.

School officials cannot comment on Blood or any athlete until after the early signing period, but those in the local running scene can attest to her abilities.

"Obviously she is a great, great talent," said George Regan, race director for the Freihofer's Run for Women. Blood has entered that race a number of times. "Good lord, Oregon is great running personified. Anyone who gets a full ride there has to be a tremendous talent. It's a testament to her ability."

David Filkins can be reached at 454-5456 or by e-mail at dfilkins@timesunion.com.

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