To track followers, Colleyville Heritage freshman Alyssa Nielson became a blip on the distance running radar when she placed 24th in the 6,000 meters at a national meet near San Diego in mid-February.

Nielson ran a personal-best 5:04.32 to win the 1,600 meters at the Jesuit-Sheaner Relays in March. She won the 1,600 in 5:08.37 and the 3,200 in 10:55.24 at the 5A Region I meet.

Quite an accomplishment for one who's new to running.

"I really only started running seriously this past summer," she said. "I ran track in middle school, but it seemed like I would always finish second. I always got out-kicked at the end."

Nielson admits she's still learning race tactics, which bodes well.

"Usually, the longer the run, the better I do," she said. "I guess it gives me more time to get ahead. I try to get up close to the front and stay there."

Nielson hopes to run her best times at state. But for now, she's just savoring the moment.

"It's exciting," she said. "I was just hoping to do well at the district meet. I had no idea that I'd make it to state. It's crazy."