Hokies sign Virginia's top mid-distance runner

Virginia native Olivia Duston inks with Virginia Tech

November 16, 2017

BLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech track and field and cross country director Dave Cianelli announced Thursday that Olivia Duston has signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Hokies for the 2018-19 season.

“Olivia really got along well with our girls,” head cross country and distance coach Ben Thomas said. “She has the potential to do really well and is willing to do the work required to be competitive on the ACC level. She will focus on the middle distances on the track and continue to develop in cross country.”

A native of Herndon, Virginia, Duston comes to Blacksburg after placing third and fourth in the 1,000 meters at the VHSL Championships. Her personal bests are clocking a time of 2:14.27 minutes in the 800-meter run and a time of 2:59.52 in the 1,000 meters.

“I am very excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the Virginia Tech community,” Duston said. “It is welcoming and there is a place for everyone. I am excited to experience Virginia Tech’s world class educational opportunities and learning environment, and look forward to the challenge and opportunity to contribute to the winning tradition of the Virginia Tech track and field program.”

The Hokies will open their 2018 indoor season at the Nittany Lion Challenge from Jan. 12-13, held at Penn State’s campus in State College.

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