14-year-old Janet Criss becomes No. 1 middle school sprinter in the United States

CASTRO VALLEY, Calif. — Janet Criss, a 14‑year‑old sprinter from the Bay Area, is now the No. 1 middle school sprinter in the United States after a dominant season that stunned coaches and national analysts.

Her times in the 100‑meter and 200‑meter events place her at the top of national rankings for her age group, according to KTVU.

14-year-old Janet Criss becomes No. 1 middle school sprinter in the nation

Criss, an eighth grader at Canyon Middle School, broke multiple meet records at the AAU Track & Field West Coast National Championship in Reno last week. She ran an 11.74 in the 100 meters and a 23.97 in the 200 meters, resetting the meet record twice in two days. Her mother, Stephanie Burton, told KTVU Criss “broke the record, then broke it again the next day.”

Winning Against Older Competition

Last month Criss also won the 100 meters at Nike Outdoor Nationals in Eugene, Oregon. She competed in the Emerging Elite division, which features top high school athletes. She was the only middle school runner in the event and beat older sprinters with an 11.78 finish, according to MileSplit CA. The website focuses on youth track and field and cross-country, following state race results, rankings, and athlete profiles.

Her personal record this season is 11.67, set at the West Coast Classic Track and Field Invitational. Coaches say her discipline and consistency set her apart. She trains before school, after school and through weekends and holidays.

Criss became a track athlete when she was only 10 years old. She is currently training with Bay Area-based track club Audience of One. Her coaches say she has the potential to reach future Olympic trials if she continues improving at her current pace.

A Rising Star With Big Plans

Criss will enter Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward this fall. She plans to join the track team, serve in student government and play violin in the school band. Her family says she balances school, training and community activities with maturity beyond her age.

Preparing for the Junior Olympics and GoFundMe

Criss is now preparing for the USA Track and Field Junior Olympics in Southern California. The event will take place in Norwalk, CA from July 27 — August 2. Her family says the opportunity is exciting but costly.

A GoFundMe campaign now supports Criss’ travel and competition expenses. The fundraiser says every donation helps her compete at the highest level and represent California with pride.