Abbey D'Agostino

D'Agostino's collegiate career at Dartmouth was historic. She became the first female distance runner from the school to win an NCAA title, and she went on to claim a total of seven NCAA championships: one in cross country, four in indoor track, and two in outdoor track. In 2014, she turned professional, signing with New Balance at around 22 years old, and has been competing ever since.

At the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, D'Agostino gained international recognition not for a victory, but for an act of sportsmanship. During a 5,000-meter heat, she and New Zealander Nikki Hamblin collided and fell. Rather than continue alone, D'Agostino helped Hamblin up, and the two encouraged each other to finish the race. Despite her injury, a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus, she was allowed to compete in the final but could not participate. Both athletes received the Rio 2016 Fair Play Award from the International Fair Play Committee. D'Agostino's gesture resonated around the world, a moment that transcended competition. Standing just 5'3" and weighing 104 lbs, she embodies resilience and grace under pressure. Now 34, she remains active in the sport she has helped define with both speed and character.