As a plucky sixth-grader, Caroline Bowe joined Midlothian Middle School’s Cross Country team, not knowing what would become of her running career. Now a junior at Midlothian High School, Bowe has run cross country, indoor track and field, and outdoor track and field for three years under the leadership of Coach Stan Morgan, Coach David Benjamin, and Coach Dan Ward. She has put in thousands of hours of running, weightlifting, stretching, and biking that have contributed to her superior fitness levels and unbreakable mental toughness.  

Bowe’s hard work has allowed her to accrue multiple honors and titles throughout her three years in Midlo’s legendary running program. Freshman year, she placed second in the 1000 meter run at the VHSL Region 4B Indoor Track and Field Championships, first in the 800 meter run at the Glen Allen Invitational, and fifth in the 800 meter run at the VHSL Class 4 State Outdoor Track and Field Championships, earning all-state honors. During her sophomore year of indoor track, Bowe placed first in the 1000 meter run at the regional level and third in the 1000 meter run at the state level; in outdoor track, she placed first in three 800 meter races, won a regional title in the 800, and earned additional all-state honors in the 800 meter run by placing fourth at the state meet. Junior year, Bowe ran ten races during her indoor track season and placed first or second in all races except the Virginia Showcase Presented by the U.S. Air Force, an all-star competition that hosts the best athletes from around the nation, where she placed sixth in the 1000 meter run.

On February 29, 2020, Bowe competed in the 1600 meter run and 1000 meter run at the VHSL Class 5 Indoor Track and Field State Championships. In the 1600 meter run, she ran 5:11.41, placing second and earning the title of VHSL Class 5 Indoor Track and Field State Runner-Up. After this achievement, Bowe explains that “during the 1600, [she] was having trouble breathing because the air quality was very bad, which made [her] nervous for the 1000, but [she] knew to push that nervousness away and focus on the race.” An hour later, Bowe toed the line for the 1000 meter run, trusting in her training and her capabilities to carry her. From the gun, Bowe led the field, and after she ran the five laps, she capitalized upon her years of hard work, crossing the line as a state champion. For her great accomplishment, she earned a medal and will later receive her first state ring. 

Due to her great successes during her indoor track season, Bowe will travel to The Armory in New York City to compete in the New Balance Indoor Track and Field Nationals on March 13 and 14. 

How did it feel to become a state champion?

Winning a state championship felt amazing because I worked very hard this season; it was also great to see all of my hard work pay off in this way.

How did you celebrate becoming a state champion?

After the meet, I had a great dinner at Moe’s with my teammates.

What motivates you?

I love running so much, and I find my motivation by striving to always improve my times.

What are your goals for the future?

In outdoor track, I hope to win another state championship in the 800 meter run.