A standout on the track for the Pella Lady Dutch is staying close to home to continue her career. Elsie Thoreson will trade in the green and white of Pella for the red and white of Central College this fall. Thoreson says she was looking for a small school where she could compete at a high level, and became convinced that the Central Dutch track and field program would offer that opportunity.

“Everyone was so welcoming and excited to have me,” she says. “When I went to talk to Coach Sturman he told me where I could contribute to the team and the success that I could have, which was very important for me to know when to commit somewhere, and I felt like I would be pushed and become a better runner at Central, so I’m excited to start my next chapter of life there.”

Thoreson is one of the best hurdlers to ever compete for the Pella Lady Dutch, and in 2019 placed 6th at the Drake Relays and 4th place in Class 3A at the state meet. She also was on the 3rd place 4×400 and 5th place sprint medley relay teams. Elsie was a key member of the 2018 Pella state champions as well, placing 7th in the 400 meter hurdles, and helping the Lady Dutch to 3rd place finishes in the Sprint Medley Relay and pivotal 3rd place 4×400 relay that ultimately clinched the top prize in Class 3A.

Hear more from Thoreson about her decision to compete for Central Track and Field on tonight’s Central College Radio Coaches corner at 7 p.m., and again this Wednesday on the KNIA/KRLS Radio Sports Page at 6 p.m. on 92.1 KRLS.