By CHUCK PORTER

Sand Springs’ Kelsi Hilton is a multi-sport star. You might see her swinging the bat on the softball diamond, running cross country in the fall, or even wrestling or powerlifting for the Sandite squads. 

Recently,  VYPE caught up with Hilton to discuss her career on the track, where she competes as a distance runner.

“I compete in the 800 meters and the mile,” Hilton said. “I love both events but I would say I prefer the 800 more. It’s a very challenging race and I love how it challenges me mentally and physically.”

Hilton, a junior, qualified for the state meet last year as a sophomore as part of the 4×800 meter relay team. This year, she’s proudest of her mile time at the Vinita meet, crossing the line with a time of 5:47.

So what does a year-round athlete like Hilton do to stay in shape and ready for all the different sports she plays?

“I like to take a nice full body ice bath the night before a competition and make sure to do lots of stretches.”

In a few years, Hilton hopes her success on the track and in the field translates to other areas, too. 

“My goals for the future would be to finish college and start working,” she said. “After all that I want to travel for a couple of years and then start a family.”

Family means a lot to Hilton. There is one person Hilton wishes she could share in her success with at a meet.

“I wish I could invite my great grandpa who passed away,” she said. “I know he would be super proud of everything I’ve accomplished.”