COLUMBIA, Mo.
Mizzou cross country and track and field standout Karissa Schweizer is set to witness a historic moment this Saturday as Columbia hosts its inaugural NCAA Division I National Championship. As the most decorated athlete in the history of the University of Missouri, Schweizer’s return underscores the significance of this event, which promises to elevate Mizzou’s cross country program to new heights.
Schweizer, now competing for Olympic medals after relocating to Portland, reflects on her time at Mizzou and how the program has evolved. “Since my time there, I’ve been telling so many people, like that’s like the next powerhouse,” she said, highlighting the potential she sees in the university’s athletes.
Her own journey to greatness began in 2016 when she entered the championship race in Terre Haute, Indiana, as an underdog. With a stunning performance, she surged forward in the final 400 meters, ultimately capturing her first national title with a personal best time of 19:41.60. This victory not only marked a personal milestone for Schweizer but also elevated Mizzou’s profile in the cross country community. “Just showcasing that we definitely had a good program and something that people wanted to come to,” she stated, reflecting on the significance of her win.
Nearly a decade after her crowning achievement, Schweizer returns to Columbia, eager to support and inspire the current generation of runners. As they prepare for their championship competition, she offers valuable advice. “Just like going out there and enjoying it, really. That’s like when I’ve run my best,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of embracing the moment.
Excited to showcase why Columbia is a unique destination for cross country, Schweizer praised Gans Creek as a genuine cross country course, distinguishing it from many previous venues that have been adapted from golf courses. She believes the course’s design, which features a 2K to 3K loop, presents a significant advantage for the competitors, allowing for better predictability in footing.
The women’s title race is set to kick off at 9:20 a.m. on Saturday at Gans Creek, marking a monumental occasion for Mizzou athletics and an opportunity for the university to solidify its presence in collegiate cross country. As the excitement builds, Schweizer’s involvement serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of dedication, hard work, and camaraderie that defines Mizzou’s running community.