New Balance Indoor Track Nationals

“Collin has the it-factor,” shared Mount Vernon cross country and track coach Elizabeth Werdesheim. “That fearless grit paired with lots of raw talent makes him a joy to watch.” 

Class of 2025 Collin Maher is a force to be reckoned with on the trail and track. During the fall cross country season, Collin often finished in first or second place for the Mustangs, leading the charge in many meets. Outside of Mount Vernon, his talents continue to be a bright light.

During his indoor track season with his track club this winter, Collin recorded personal bests in both the 400m run and the 800m run, qualifying him for the New Balance Nationals in New York City. During the season, per Milesplit, Collin was ranked 17th in the country for Freshman 400m and 5th in the country for Freshman 800m.

At the indoor national meet earlier in March, Collin recorded a personal best in the 400m with a 52.48 time. Following the event, he was recognized as one of Georgia’s “Unsung Heroes” by Milesplit.

They shared, “It’s usually difficult for male freshman distance runners to stand out, since building up the strength and endurance to run fast track races can take years to accomplish. This week, Maher demonstrated that he already has both the speed and the endurance to run well in two events at a high level.

“Running against good private school competition at the Mount Paran Christian Classic, Maher blazed a 53.47-second 400m, placing him first in his heat and second overall in the race. Just two days later, Maher took the track for the 800m in Marietta and ran his first outdoor 800m in 2:05.7, slotting in as the first freshman to finish at this loaded distance-centric meet.

“Maher has unusual range at a young age, with quick personal records in events from the 200m to the 5000 in cross country. He could definitely make some noise in the mid-distance events at the 1A Private state meet.” 

With his progress, Collin, his coaches, and his family are hopeful that his indoor times translate well outdoors, anticipating a trip to the Outdoor Nationals in Oregon in June.

Congratulations, Collin! We can’t wait to cheer you on as you continue to accomplish great things.