Colin O’Donnell made Methacton history on March 15 when he ran a 4:16.27 indoor mile at the New Balance Nationals in Boston cementing him as the best distance runner in Methacton History. 

Colin’s journey began in 2022 when he entered his first indoor track season. His best 800m came in just under 2:26; his top 3000m finish was just over 10:21.  

Colin didn’t compete for the cross-country team his freshman year, but he began to see promise in his distance chops when he ran a 17:00 5k at the PIAA District 1 Championships to conclude his sophomore season.

Colin said that consistency in work ethic and enjoying the sport are two keys for running success. He added that running is a very mental sport.

Near the conclusion of his junior cross-country season, Colin dropped his time by 30 seconds at the PIAA District 1 Championships, running the 5k course in 16:30.80. His track times got better as well. He ran a 9:32.39 3000m and a 4:18.69 mile.

Colin said he would like to thank his mom and dad for their support and for his success. His father currently coaches the indoor and outdoor track teams. He also thanked his former Methacton track coach, Christopher Torpey, who he said was a big part of his success.

Colin’s success has continued on into his final year at MHS. 

On March 15 , he broke Methacton’s indoor track record in the mile when he crossed the finish line in 4:16.27. He also set Methacton’s 5000m record with a 15:27.70 finish at the PIAA District 1 Championships in October of last year. 

Colin said he feels great about holding two Methacton distance records, but he feels he has more work to do. While the spring track season is still underway, he is planning for the future as he is going to Penn State University to continue running cross country and track. 

Before he becomes a Nittany Lion, Colin still has a few goals as a Warrior. He’d like to break 4:10 in the mile, run a 9:05 in the 3000m, and finish under a 1:53 in the 800m before he departs.