Karen Dennis emphasized recruiting the top central Ohio athletes when she was promoted two years ago to Ohio State director of track and field and cross country.
“You hate to lose your local talent to your competitors,” Dennis said. “It’s painful to watch your local talent at other institutions doing very well.”
So upon taking over OSU’s program in 2014 after eight seasons as coach of the women’s team, Dennis zeroed in on signing sprinter Nick Gray of Pickerington North to run for the Buckeyes.
“He was the priority,” Dennis said.
Gray is one of 22 athletes, including 16 women, who graduated from central Ohio high schools and will compete for OSU at the Jesse Owens Track & Field Classic today and Saturday at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.