how to get recruited for the 3200m
The Stars of The Event
The 3200m, or two-mile race, is a cornerstone of high school and collegiate distance running, demanding a unique blend of speed and endurance. The event's history is marked by incredible performances from legends like Grant Fisher, who set a high school national record and went on to a stellar career at Stanford University before becoming an American record holder as a pro. Another all-star is Alan Webb, a sub-4 minute miler in high school who also posted incredible 3200m times. When it comes to top college programs, the University of Colorado, University of Arkansas, and Northern Arizona University (NAU) are consistently among the nation's best, producing some of the fastest runners in the country year after year.
Division 1
For high school runners with aspirations of competing at the Division 1 level, your 3200m time is a key piece of your recruiting profile. To be considered for a top-tier men's program, a time between 8:35 and 9:02 is often necessary, with the most competitive schools looking for times on the lower end of that range. For women, a time of 10:20 to 10:50 is the target for top-tier Division 1 programs. These standards are not just about raw speed but also demonstrate consistency and the potential for growth. Many schools will also look at your cross country times and performances in other events like the 1600m to get a full picture of your abilities.
Division 2
Division 2 schools offer fantastic opportunities for college athletes, and the recruiting standards for the 3200m are a bit more accessible than Division 1. Male athletes looking to compete at the D2 level should be aiming for a time between 9:02 and 9:20. This range indicates a high level of talent and dedication that is highly valued by D2 coaches. For female athletes, a time of 10:50 to 11:10 is the typical range for recruitment. While these standards are slightly less demanding than D1, they still represent a significant accomplishment for a high school runner. Many D2 programs are incredibly competitive, and a time within these ranges can lead to a great collegiate running experience.