News Summary

Patrick Hardesty, a standout distance runner from Thunder Basin High School, is set to make his collegiate debut at the University of Central Missouri. After a notable high school career marked by impressive performances at state track meets, Hardesty’s dedication and talent earned him a place among the top competitors in various events. As he embarks on this new chapter, the Gillette community celebrates his achievements and anticipates his future successes in collegiate athletics.

Patrick Hardesty Takes the Leap from Thunder Basin to College Track

In the charming city of Gillette, Wyoming, Patrick Hardesty is stepping into a new chapter of his life and athletic career. After an impressive tenure as a distance runner at Thunder Basin High School, Hardesty is all set to lace up his running shoes and tackle the collegiate scene at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. This is an exciting time for not just Patrick but for the entire Thunder Basin community as they bid farewell and best wishes to one of their standout athletes.

A High School Career to Remember

Patrick’s track career is nothing short of remarkable. He shone brightly at the 2025 Indoor State Track Meet, where he showcased his speed and stamina. Securing a fantastic 2nd place in the 800 meters with a jaw-dropping time of 1:58.88 was a highlight of the event. But that was just the tip of the iceberg; his versatility was evident as he also finished 3rd in the 3200 meters with a time of 9:37.44 and 6th in the 1600 meters, clocking in at 4:31.71. Making his mark, Hardesty helped his 4×800 relay team to grab a 2nd place finish as well.

Fast forward to the 2025 Outdoor State Track Meet in Casper, where Hardesty continued to earn points for his team. He clinched 6th place in both the 800 meters and the 3200 meters and finished 9th in the 1600 meters. His 4×800 relay team also didn’t disappoint, placing 4th during the outdoor season. These results were not just numbers; they represented countless hours of hard work, dedication, and a love for the sport.

Consistency and Growth

Praising his trajectory, it’s fair to reflect on Hardesty’s junior season as well. At the State Outdoor Meet, he garnered finishes that showed steady growth, landing 8th in the 3200 meters, 10th in the 800 meters, and 15th in the 1600 meters. Once again, the 4×800 relay team highlighted their prowess with a 4th place finish. It’s clear that Hardesty’s journey has been marked by a commitment to improvement and consistency.

Cross Country Achievements

But Patrick’s talents extend beyond the track. In cross country, he also made a statement with stellar performances in state events. He finished 12th at the 2024 State Cross Country Meet with a time of 17:03.64 and 16th in 2023 at 17:15.31. These results further round out his accolades and show that he is a well-rounded athlete capable of excelling in various running disciplines.

A Bright Future Ahead

As he prepares to join the University of Central Missouri, Patrick Hardesty will be stepping into a whole new level of competition. The University, ranked as a Division II institution and a proud member of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association, will surely provide him with the platform to showcase his talents even further. The training, competition, and experiences that await him are bound to mold Hardesty into an even stronger athlete.

For now, Gillette celebrates Patrick’s achievements and eagerly anticipates the next phase of his running career. The memories made at Thunder Basin High School will forever hold a special place in his heart as he embarks on this thrilling new journey. Here’s to Patrick Hardesty, whose story is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next!

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