Nationwide — Janet Criss, a 14-year-old African American track athlete from Northern California, is making a name for herself as the top-ranked middle school 100-meter sprinter in the state and the nation. The young runner continues to break records as she prepares for the USA Track and Field Junior Olympics.
The East Bay athlete recently delivered a standout performance at the AAU Track & Field West Coast National Championship in Reno. Criss broke three meet records, including the 100-meter and 200-meter races, finishing with times of 11.74 seconds and 23.97 seconds.
She also competed at the Nike Outdoor Nationals in Eugene, Oregon, where she won the Emerging Elite 100-meter division. Criss was the only middle school runner in the event and finished ahead of several top high school athletes from across the country, according to KTVU.
Earlier in the season, Criss recorded a personal best of 11.67 seconds at the West Coast Classic Track and Field Invitational. While attending Canyon Middle School in Castro Valley, she also set a local meet record in the 100-meter with a time of 11.60 seconds.
Criss has remained undefeated in the 100-meter this season and held the top spot in the 200-meter sprint division before placing third at the Nike Outdoor Nationals. Her mother, Stephanie Burton, said her daughter’s achievements reflect years of hard work and commitment.
The incoming freshman will continue her education at Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward. Along with joining the track team, she plans to take part in student government and play violin in the school band.
Criss began competing in track at age 10 and now trains with the Bay Area-based track club Audience of One. Her mother said the young athlete dedicates hours to training before and after school, as well as during weekends and holidays.
The teen’s long-term goal is to compete at the college and professional levels. She is now preparing for the 2026 USATF National Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships in Norwalk, California, after previously qualifying for the event and placing third in her age group.
Criss hopes to continue chasing her goal of competing against the best young athletes in the country. To help support her journey, Criss’ family started a GoFundMe campaign to cover expenses for elite competitions, including travel, lodging, transportation, meals, and entry fees. It has so far raised nearly $1,000.