The Iowa Central distance program didn't have to look very far to find a diamond in the rough in the form of Kirstyn Beaman.

A graduate of Humboldt High School, Beaman joined the Tritons after a standout career competing for the Wildcats. 

Her success as a runner has only continued with Iowa Central, highlighted by a victory at the Coffeyville Winter Invitational to kick off the indoor track and field season. Beaman clocked a time of 6:34.87 to finish first in the mile ahead of four runners from Fort Scott. She also placed third in the 1000 during the event in 3:44.24 behind only teammates Chloe Lenoir and Shaunti Longfellow.

"It felt good to be back competing again with my teammates," Beaman said. "I'm just happy to have the opportunity to compete and represent Iowa Central."

Those are definitely two things Beaman has done since joining the school. 

She was 16th this past fall at the NJCAA Half Marathon Championships, securing NJCAA Coaches Association All-American honors in the process. Beaman is also getting it done in the classroom, earning second team academic all-region status during the recent semester. 

"We are thankful that Kirstyn decided to join the cross country team this fall," Iowa Central coach Nick Ekel said. "Throughout the course of the season, it was fun to watch her gain confidence in her ability to compete throughout her workouts and races. Her improvements have only carried over from cross country to track."

But with Beaman, it is even more than just being a vital part of the active roster.

"Kirstyn truly cares about her teammates and she is one of the most selfless individuals on the team," Ekel said. "She is a consummate team player and does what is needed to help her teammates be successful.

"Her development as a student-athlete is a credit to her hard work and determination to be successful. We are a better team for having Kirstyn Beaman as a Triton."

Dee Brown, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country at Iowa Central, echoed those sentiments. 

"Kirstyn is a quiet leader who leads by example," Brown said. "She is a hard worker who constantly gives it her best. She is very coachable and we enjoy having her on the squad."

-By Dana Becker