Tharptown senior Gracie Montgomery signed a cross country scholarship with the Calhoun Warhawks Friday.

Montgomery is a three–sport athlete at Tharptown, running cross country and track as well as being a long-time starter on the basketball team.

“Running cross country at the college level is something I never thought I could do,” said Montgomery. “It wasn’t until Coach Brown and I had looked at times and talked about how likely it could be for me to get to that point. He said that it would take a lot of work but I could do it.”

Montgomery said running cross country has taught her some important life lessons.

“Cross country is probably one of the most competitive sports I’ve ever played. Not many people understand how competitive and interesting it actually is,” she said. “Running cross country for the past three years has taught me how to be more competitive and push myself to reach goals I set for myself. It has also taught me to never give up.”

Montgomery has run cross country at Tharptown for three years. She led her team to a runner-up finish at sectionals this year. She was a two-time qualifier for the state cross–country meet and a two-time All-Section runner.

“We couldn’t be more proud of Gracie,” said Tharptown cross–country coach Joseph Brown. “She has represented our program with class for three years. Her work ethic and leadership made her a great role model – not only for our girls team but our entire program. I’m excited to see what she accomplishes at the next level.”

Montgomery is the Tharptown High School Class of 2022 valedictorian. She said she plans to pursue a career as a dental hygienist or dentist.