Track Minute: Addison Ritzenhein Commits to Northern Arizona University

Addison Ritzenhein commits to Northern Arizona University

Ritzenhein, a standout junior distance runner from Niwot High School in Colorado, has verbally committed to Northern Arizona University (NAU), marking the first major recruit for incoming head coach Jarred Cornfield, who will assume leadership in July 2025. Ritzenhein, daughter of three-time Olympian Dathan Ritzenhein, boasts impressive credentials, including a Colorado state cross country championship and a fifth-place finish at Nike Cross Nationals.

Bill introduced to prohibit males-at-birth from participating in women's sports

On January 4, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Florida) introduced H.R. 28, titled the "Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2025," aiming to amend Title IX to prohibit individuals assigned male at birth from participating in women's sports teams. This legislative move follows a series of similar bills and ongoing debates over transgender athletes' participation in women's sports.

Athletics Australia and PUMA sign deal until 2032

Athletics Australia has extended its partnership with sportswear brand PUMA until 2032, marking the longest deal in Australian athletics history. This renewal follows Australia's recent successes in athletics, including record medal hauls at the World Championships and World Para Championships. Under this agreement, Australian athletes, coaches, and staff will continue to wear PUMA's apparel at international events leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, excluding the Olympics, Paralympics, and Commonwealth Games.

Ben True to join Dartmouth coaching staff

True, a Dartmouth alum, has been appointed as an assistant coach for Dartmouth's cross country and track and field teams. He had previously served as a volunteer assistant coach during the 2022-23 season, and brings a wealth of experience, including representing the United States at the 2011 and 2013 World Cross Country Championships and holding the American record in the 5k road race.

1904 Olympics gold medal goes to auction

A rare gold medal from the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Games, awarded to American athlete Fred Schule for his victory in the 110-meter hurdles, is currently up for auction, with bidding open until January 16. This medal, notable for its excellent condition and the inclusion of most of the original ribbon and case, is already bid to over $165,000. The 1904 Olympics were the first to award gold, silver, and bronze medals for first, second, and third places, respectively, making this item particularly significant for collectors.