Grace Baxter, a senior cross-country and track star at Granite Bay High School, has announced her commitment to run Division I athletics at UC Irvine, marking a significant milestone in her running journey that began in fourth grade. Baxter’s passion for running ignited when she enjoyed running the mile in elementary school.

“It was a way for me to express myself,” Baxter said.

Throughout high school, Baxter reached impressive milestones, including leading her team to a third-place finish at the state meet, an accomplishment not seen since 2012. However, her path wasn’t without obstacles. During her sophomore year, she developed an iron deficiency, a setback that required her to take supplements and endure numerous blood tests despite her discomfort with needles.

“It made racing more difficult… I physically couldn’t push harder when I was running. Usually, you don’t get exhausted until the end, and even then, you can keep going and finish strong,” Baxter said.

Support from her coaches and teammates was essential through these tough moments.

“Coach Woody’s always saying funny quotes before races to make me smile and push me harder,” Baxter said.

Known for her supportive spirit, Baxter often waits at the finish line to cheer on her teammates and hand out water after her races. Baxter’s family, especially her sister Sarah Baxter, a junior at Granite Bay High, played a significant role.

“Our family’s always there, even if it’s for just an 18-minute race,” Sarah Baxter said.

Sarah described Grace as a captain on and off the field, always the first to make posters or cheer loudly for her team.

“She’s someone who ensures everyone feels included and motivated,” Sarah Baxter said.

Despite facing challenges, such as dealing with negative comments from teammates, Grace responded by becoming a captain and taking initiative.

“She really stepped up and led the team when others didn’t,” Sarah noted, showcasing Grace’s resilience and dedication.
Carla Kehoe, Granite Bay’s cross-country and track coach, has seen Baxter’s commitment and growth firsthand.

“Grace is the person at the finish line with water for her teammates, no matter how her race went,” Kehoe said.

Kehoe praised Baxter’s dedication to her training, noting her year-round regimen with only brief breaks between seasons.

“Her diligence in taking care of both her body and mind is what it takes to succeed at the next level,” Kehoe said.

Beyond her athletic skills, Kehoe emphasized Baxter’s balance between academics, family, sports, and friends.

“She’s done an incredible job balancing it all, and it’s one of the most important aspects of her development,” Kehoe said.

The recruitment process for UC Irvine was intense, but Baxter ultimately felt confident in her decision.

“I felt such a sense of relief when I decided on UC Irvine,” Baxter said.

Her official visit, including a beach outing and bonding with the team, confirmed her choice.

“The atmosphere was welcoming, and I felt a strong connection with the team,” Baxter said.

As she prepares for the next chapter, Baxter hopes to inspire young athletes with her journey of perseverance and teamwork.

“I want to uplift those around me while excelling as an athlete,” Baxter said.