Allie Ostrander’s Olympic journey started in Soldotna, Alaska, where she fell in love with running on rugged trails and scenic landscapes. Beyond her athletic achievements, Alaska’s champion, Allie, courageously shares her battles, including overcoming an eating disorder, through her YouTube channel. Now, aiming for her third attempt at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field team, Allie brings hope and hard-earned experience to her quest. Her relentless drive to conquer challenges and pursue her dreams exemplifies true resilience. As she gears up for another shot on the national stage, Allie embodies Alaska’s indomitable spirit, persistence, and determination to achieve Olympic glory.
A New Mindset
In a YouTube video she posted on June 16, Allie talked about changing her mindset. She said, “It’s not that I don’t have experience or know what to expect. It’s how I think about it and value it.” This shift in how she sees things comes after she dealt with tough personal stuff, like struggling with an eating disorder.
Race Details
| Event | Date & Time |
| Women’s 3,000-meter Steeplechase | Monday at 4:59 p.m. Alaska time |
| Preliminary Race | |
| Final Race | June 27, if she qualifies |
Allie is determined to make her Olympic debut this year, missing out in 2016 and 2021. From Soldotna, her parents, Paul and Teri Ostrander, along with their dog Elvis, expressed their enthusiasm over a Zoom call, urging fellow Alaskans to rally behind her.
Allie Ostrander’s Olympic Journey
1. Family Support
Paul Ostrander: “I want all of Alaska to support her with everything they’ve got and help her achieve this dream of hers.”
Teri Ostrander: “I believe this is probably the year for Allie. I believe in Allie and her journey, and I’m happy to see her happy.”
2. Allie’s Journey and Struggles
Over the past three years, Allie has been sharing her journey on YouTube, where she bravely discusses her battle with an eating disorder. She doesn’t shy away from the tricky parts, describing the experience as challenging and incredibly fulfilling.
“It hasn’t been a smooth ride, but it’s taught me so much.”
She shared in a recent video.
Her openness has helped her grow and inspired many who follow her story.
3. Achievements and Records
- High School: Ran for Kenai Central High School
- College: All-American at Boise State University, winning the NCAA Division I women’s steeplechase in 2017, 2018, and 2019.
- Mount Marathon: Holds the course record in the girl’s division (28:54 in 2014) and has won the event six times.
4. Recent Performance
Allie’s recovery from her eating disorder has made her stronger.
“It’s felt like a rebirth. I have a new appreciation for my ability to train, compete, and become stronger.”
Allie Ostrander
Her parents have noticed this change, too. Paul said, “Her confidence has been growing over the last three races, and it’s exciting to watch. She’s currently achieving her quickest speeds to date”
5. Race Results and Qualifying
Allie’s recent success includes winning a race on June 8 at the Portland Track Festival, where she finished the women’s 3,000-meter steeplechase in 9 minutes, 24.7 seconds. This time, it met the current U.S. Olympic qualifying standard and was just three seconds off the meet record.
6. Past Olympic Trials
- 2016: Finished eighth in the 5K with a time of 15:24
- 2021: Finished eighth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase with a time of 9:26
“Every fiber of my being wants to make the team, but I’ll be okay if I don’t. I’m going to lay it all out there,” she said.
Allie Ostrander’s Key Achievements
| Year | Event | Achievement |
| 2014 | Mount Marathon | Course Record (28:54) |
| 2017 | NCAA Steeplechase | Winner |
| 2018 | NCAA Steeplechase | Winner |
| 2019 | NCAA Steeplechase | Winner |
| 2023 | Portland Track Festival | 9:24.7 (Qualifying Standard) |
Final Verdict
Allie Ostrander’s journey epitomizes resilience and growth, from her roots in Soldotna to collegiate success at Boise State. Her recent stellar performances and recovery from an eating disorder highlight her mental courage. Allie’s mature approach of giving her all while accepting any outcome demonstrates her depth. Her story emphasizes perseverance and mental health awareness in sports. Let’s unite in celebrating her journey beyond results as she pursues her Olympic dream in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, inspiring athletes and fans alike. Whether she secures an Olympic spot, Allie’s resilience and commitment shine, buoyed by unwavering support from family, the Soldotna community, and Alaska.
