Breaking records and pushing boundaries: An inside look at Bethany Schrag's track journey
Breaking records and pushing boundaries: An inside look at Bethany Schrag's track journey
Following her recent record-breaking performances, Schrag reflects on her track journey and experience at Bethel.
Bethany Schrag’s journey in track and field at Bethel College is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and a passion for excellence. From her humble beginnings as a cross-country enthusiast to her current status as a record-breaking athlete, Schrag's story is one of inspiration and achievement.
Schrag’s interest in track and field was ignited during her high school years when her P.E. teacher, who also served as the head cross country coach, encouraged her to join the team. Initially hesitant, Schrag took the leap and soon discovered a love for running that would shape her athletic career.
“I knew I wanted to better my running career by joining track and I have enjoyed every moment of it since,” she said. Transitioning from cross country to track, Schrag found herself drawn to the challenges and opportunities for improvement that the sport offered.
Breaking school records was not something Schrag had envisioned when she first stepped onto the track at Bethel College. However, through hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Schrag shattered expectations and etched her name in the annals of Bethel’s track program. Reflecting on this achievement, Schrag expresses deep gratitude, recognizing the honor of leaving a lasting legacy at her alma mater.
For Schrag, the success of the team serves as a powerful motivator to continually push herself on the track. “Seeing the success of my teammates and all their hard work makes me want to continue to improve,” she said.
She finds inspiration in the collective efforts of her teammates, viewing each triumph as a shared victory that propels the entire team forward. This sense of camaraderie and mutual support fuels Schrag's drive to improve and serves as a reminder of the transformative power of teamwork, and shared “When one of us gets better, we all get better — and that is what I really love about track.”
“When one of us gets better, we all get better — and that is what I really love about track.”
Bethany Schrag
Balancing the demands of academics and athletics is no easy task, yet Schrag approaches this challenge with determination and resilience. She emphasized the importance of staying organized and disciplined: “Track meets are a great way to sit down and get a good chunk of homework done while you are waiting for your event.” By prioritizing both her studies and her athletic pursuits, Schrag embodies the ethos of the student-athlete, excelling in both realms with grace and determination.
Behind every successful athlete is a coach who plays a pivotal role in their development. For Schrag, her coach has been a source of unwavering support and guidance, and emphasized the important role that he has played: “He has helped develop my confidence in running and he has also taught me to keep pushing when it hurts.”
Beyond honing her physical skills, Schrag’s coach has instilled in her valuable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Through their mentorship, Schrag has grown not only as an athlete but also as a person, embodying the core values of integrity, discipline, and perseverance.
Outside of track, Schrag finds joy and fulfillment in her involvement in music. As a member of Bethel’s concert choir, Chamber Singers, and student-led acapella group Woven, Schrag cultivates her passion for music while finding solace and inspiration in the harmonies of her peers. Balancing her musical pursuits with her athletic and academic endeavors, Schrag demonstrates a remarkable capacity for time management and a commitment to pursuing her diverse interests with equal fervor.
As Schrag reflects on her time at Bethel College, she cherishes the memories made with her teammates and friends, particularly during service day activities that strengthen community bonds and foster a spirit of giving back.
“That [Service Day] is one of my favorite memories here at Bethel because we got to do something together that benefited the community and it was a lot of fun,” Schrag said. These experiences underscore her commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the track, embodying the values of leadership, service, and teamwork that define the Bethel College experience.
Schrag’s success in track and field in North Newton is a testament to her unwavering dedication, relentless pursuit of excellence, and commitment to her team and community. Through her record-breaking achievements and exemplary leadership, Schrag leaves an indelible mark on the Bethel track program, inspiring future generations of athletes to dream big, work hard, and never settle for anything less than their best.