Boise State track and field athlete Abby Kendrick will return for a fifth year of competition in 2026, following an injury that granted her additional eligibility. Kendrick’s journey to becoming a competitive runner was unconventional, beginning with eight years of gymnastics in her hometown of Missoula, Montana.
From Gymnastics to Steeplechase
Kendrick’s initial athletic aspirations centered around gymnastics, fueled by a coach who was a Boise State alumna. “She had such an impact on me and who I was growing up,” Kendrick said. “I remember she had a Boise State gymnastics poster in her office, and I knew that is where I wanted to head for gymnastics, that’s my dream gymnastics school.”
A family tradition of running, with annual Thanksgiving and Christmas runs, and encouragement from her father and aunt—a cross-country coach—eventually led Kendrick to try the sport. She quickly found success, stating, “I got hooked from the beginning…I fell in love with it and I realized I might actually be good at this and I committed.”
Despite initially turning down an offer from Boise State to pursue her gymnastics dream, changing circumstances due to COVID and travel restrictions led her to commit to the university. She has “loved it ever since.”
A Self-Driven Path
Kendrick’s interest in the 3,000m steeplechase was self-motivated, drawing on her gymnastics background and flexibility. Her enthusiasm was met with immediate support from the coaching staff, who responded to her request to try the event with a simple challenge: “here’s a hurdle, jump.”
The 2024-25 season proved to be Kendrick’s strongest to date, highlighted by a personal best of 10:02.65 at the 2025 Mountain West Outdoor Track & Field Championship and a 26th-place finish at the NCAA West Regional.
After graduating last spring with a degree in health science and a minor in psychology, Kendrick is currently awaiting placement in an accelerated nursing program.
Looking Ahead
Whereas Kendrick’s future in nursing is on the horizon, she will first return to competition for one final season in 2026. She will continue to improve her steeplechase time and potentially qualify for national-level competitions. It is also likely that she will serve as a mentor to younger athletes on the team. Her continued participation could also influence future recruiting efforts for the steeplechase program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sport did Abby Kendrick initially want to pursue at Boise State?
Abby Kendrick initially wanted to pursue gymnastics at Boise State, inspired by a former gymnast who coached her.
What was Abby Kendrick’s personal best time in the 3,000m steeplechase during the 2024-25 season?
Abby Kendrick’s personal best time in the 3,000m steeplechase during the 2024-25 season was 10:02.65.
What is Abby Kendrick pursuing academically?
Abby Kendrick graduated with a health science degree and a minor in psychology and is now awaiting placement in an accelerated nursing program.
What motivates athletes to overcome obstacles and pursue their passions, even when faced with unexpected challenges?
