EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WCIA) — It’s been an eventful start to Isabella Keller’s junior cross country season.

She’s off to an undefeated start this season at meets, including an event featuring runners from multiple states in and around the Midwest.

Keller took first at the Nike XC Town Twilight meet in Terre Haute, IN with a top time of 16:52.92. A time just shy of a meet record.

She was able to put in an impressive performance despite some pre-race jitters.

“There were some nerves before the race, but they were more of the excited kind. It’s always something positive,” Keller explained. “I felt confident about competing with the top athletes. I had encountered the other leading runners during my freshman and sophomore years, so I had some insight into their racing styles.”

“I’ve been coaching track for many years and recently got into cross-country. It’s rare to have an athlete like her,” said St. Anthony cross country coach Art Geen. “It’s incredible to observe her work ethic and her remarkable determination to win.”

Keller is now eligible for $1,500 cash prize we’ll give away to one boy and one girl at the end of the school year.

You can send in an athlete of the week nomination here.