Greenon High School junior Ruby Clark is set to go aboard on the adventure of a lifetime this summer, representing both the United States and the Greenon community in the Coast to Coast International Athletics program in Australia. Selected through a nationwide search based on competitive time standards, Ruby will compete in the 1500-meter run, 3000-meter run, 2000-meter steeplechase, and a relay event as part of the U.S. team.
Ruby first learned about the program when she received the letter at school. “I was so excited. I didn’t even know this was a thing,” she said. “I feel proud to be invited to represent the U.S.” Her mother, Alecia, echoed the excitement: “She sent me a picture of the letter right away. We’ve always known she was talented, but this opportunity blew us away.”
The international meet will take place July 11–13 at the Gold Coast Performance Centre in Queensland. Ruby and her teammates will stay on-site, train together and build team chemistry with morning runs and coaching sessions leading up to the competition. Beyond the track, Ruby is eager to meet other athletes, learn from new coaching styles, and experience a new culture. “I’ve never left the country before,” she said. “I’m excited to see what’s different and maybe try new foods or traditions.”
Running has been part of Ruby’s life since she was eight years old, when she began training with her dad, Chris, in preparation for his PT tests. Their first goal together was a 5K—one she crushed, taking first in her age group in Tipp City. Since then, Ruby’s dedication to the sport has only grown. “Running is something she truly loves,” Alecia said. “It’s been amazing to watch her passion turn into something so meaningful.”
Support from the Greenon community has played a major role in making this opportunity possible and Ruby is quick to credit her school, coach, and teammates for their influence. “My experience at Greenon has taught me sportsmanship and how to grow from every race,” she said. “Thank you to my coach for always helping me get through those big meets.”
Her coach, Cameron Haught, has been a strong influence on Ruby’s running journey, encouraging her to push past her comfort zone and chase her goals. Alecia noted how his leadership, along with the close-knit support of Ruby’s teammates, has helped shape not just her running ability, but her sportsmanship. “I’ve never seen her finish a race without cheering on every other runner,” Alecia said. “She’s everyone’s biggest cheerleader.”
Ruby plans to share photos and updates during her trip—stay tuned as we follow this #GreenonKnight halfway around the world!