Bernadette Belzer: Breaking Barriers on Track and Beyond

The Journey of Bernadette Belzer

At the crossroads of high school and college sports, choices often shape the future. For Bernadette Belzer, a junior at the University of Mary, that meant making tough decisions to focus on her true passion—track and field—while leaving behind her love for hockey. The warmth of her journey is palpable, shining through every hurdle she jumps.

A New Chapter Begins

Belzer's excitement as a freshman to join U Mary's track team was tangible. She recounts,

“I was super excited to be a part of the team and become a better track athlete. I love competing and pushing myself outside of my boundaries.”

This spirit of resilience shapes her training and academic life alike, as she adapted to the rigors of being a student-athlete.

From High School Success to Collegiate Challenges

While at Jamestown High School, Belzer qualified for the NDHSAA State Track and Field Championships three times. Notably, her remarkable performance in her senior year saw her finishing second in the 300-meter hurdles—a testament to her burgeoning talent.

“The switch from high school to college is a pretty big jump,”

she reflects. The transition from a brief high school season to a year-round training schedule has not only strengthened her physically but has also honed her technical skills with the support of dedicated coaches.

Current Events and Metrics

Primarily known as a 400-meter hurdler, Belzer also shows versatility by contributing to both the 4x400 meter relay during outdoor seasons and competing in various events during indoor competitions. As she gears up for a packed indoor season, which began on December 5 and runs until the NCAA Indoor Championships in March, she looks forward to continuing to push her limits.

Record-Breaking Progress

Belzer's hard work reserves a spotlight—she's achieved personal records (PRs) that have not only elevated her performance but also aided U Mary's women's team to notable conference finishes.

“Being able to place that high in the NSIC, which is a really competitive conference, has been amazing to be a part of,”

she beams.

The Road Ahead: Balancing Life and Athletics

As she juggles training, academic responsibilities—studying biology with a chemistry minor on the pre-med track—and a social life, her discipline shines through.

“Learning to find a balance... is very hard but an extremely rewarding thing to do,”

she explains. It's clear that Belzer thrives on the challenges presented both on the track and in the classroom.

In the Trenches: Training and Life Lessons

Belzer's training days are filled with a mix of hurdle technique, endurance running, and strength conditioning.

“...Track workouts can be pretty long and grueling, but I have a great training group that supports and push me to embrace the challenge head on,”

she notes. This camaraderie amplifies her love for the sport, and the track has become a second home, enriched by the bond with her teammates.

A Call to Action for Future Athletes

With her experiences as both an inspiration and a testament to the richness of track and field, she encourages young athletes:

“Track allows you to push yourself as an individual and have personal success, but you are also part of a team and part of something bigger.”

Bernadette Belzer is proving that when you chase your passions, the boundaries are limitless, and the journey is just as crucial as the destination.