NBH's Bartlow named Florida Distance Athlete of the Year

Yahoo

11-06-2025

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) — A North Bay Haven Charter Academy graduate is closing the book on a historic high school running career, and starting a new chapter at the collegiate level.
What began as a simple hobby for Maggie Bartlow transformed into a passion, and then into a college scholarship. Now, her legacy continues as she prepares to compete for Florida State University's cross-country and track programs this fall.
'I'm going to be honest, I was not expecting my high school career to turn out like this at all,' Bartlow said.
Bartlow didn't always envision running at the next level. In fact, the idea of distance running once felt overwhelming.
'Distance running in particular can be very daunting,' she said. 'You're telling me I have to race three miles over grass and through mud, and I'm going to get all dirty and possibly throw up at the end. It's terrifying.'
But with a passion for numbers and a drive to constantly improve her times, Bartlow became more than just comfortable with the sport, she became elite.
In the fall of her senior year, Bartlow claimed Bay County's first-ever state championship in cross country. By spring, she set her sights on the track.
'My goal was the 3200,' she said. 'I wanted that 3200. The 1,600 has never been my strength, but I really, really wanted this 32.'
She not only won gold in the 3,200-meter run but also earned silver in the 1,600. Her accomplishments caught the attention of MileSplit, which recently named her the Florida Girls Distance Athlete of the Year.
'I can't believe that people really think of me like that,' Bartlow said. 'The fact that I'm considered up here by other people, it's just like, oh my gosh, this is kind of unreal.'
Before heading to Tallahassee, Bartlow will compete one final time as a high schooler at the Nike Nationals in Oregon.
She hopes to make the Seminoles' A-team in her freshman year but said she wouldn't be where she is today without the people who've supported her along the way.
'Every person that experiences some sort of athletic success, they're going to have a family behind them or friends or teammates or coaches, teachers,' she said. 'For me, it's all of the above. I've had so many people come together and help pull me along this journey, and I would not be here if it weren't for them.'
Bartlow leaves behind a legacy as perhaps the most decorated distance runner Bay County has ever produced, and she's just getting started.
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