Reid Gross, a rising junior at Rocky Mount Academy, achieved a historic milestone by winning the national championship in the boys’ 2,000-meter steeplechase at the Adidas Track Nationals with a personal-best time of 6:10.45. This victory not only earned him Adidas All-American status but also ranks him as the No. 3 sophomore in the event for the 2026 outdoor track season. Gross narrowly defeated fellow sophomore Beckett Lunde by just 0.14 seconds and established himself with one of the fastest times in North Carolina's high school history.

By the Numbers
  • Gross's winning time of 6:10.45 is the second-fastest by a sophomore in North Carolina state history.
  • He improved his personal best by eight seconds from a previous time of 6:18.
State of Play
  • Gross transitioned into steeplechase training after a state title win, preparing with multiple hurdle workouts.
  • His performance at the nationals has raised expectations for future competitions, given his newly acquired skills in steeplechase techniques.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Gross aims to continue improving his steeplechase performance and hopes to set new records in upcoming competitions. His victory may inspire further commitment to training, potentially positioning him for greater success at national-level events in the future.

Bottom Line

Reid Gross's achievement as a national champion in the steeplechase marks an important milestone in his athletic career, showcasing not only his talent but also the impact of dedicated training. His story emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and perseverance in athletics, highlighting potential for future success.