A series to share #smiles across our community through the achievements of our local youth, brought to you by Olsen Orthodontics.
Written by Carl Cote
(Ethete, WY) – Colton SunRhodes has been one of the most consistent distance runners in Wyoming’s Class 2A ranks during his time at Wyoming Indian High School. On Monday, he reaped the benefits of his hard work, signing to run cross-country and track at Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas.
SunRhodes established himself as one of the top distance runners in Wyoming, finishing in the top ten at the state meet for the last three years. He was also part of the Chiefs’ 2024 team championship in cross country.
He said his favorite memories from high school weren’t necessarily the races themselves but the time spent with teammates on the road.
“The best ones were made when I was traveling with my team and just staying in the hotel rooms and messing around,” said SunRhodes. “Having a good time, having fun.”
SunRhodes hasn’t visited Haskell yet, but has been in regular contact with the coaching staff and said he likes what he’s heard so far.
“They sound like good people, and they make it seem very welcoming,” he said. “And most of their athletes, from what my coaches told me, they’re welcoming too.”
He plans to study health and sports science and said he’d eventually like to go into coaching and teaching. The long-term plan is to bring that back home to the Wind River Reservation.
“I’d like to come back and get back to my community in any way I can,” said SunRhodes.
At his signing, surrounded by family, Sun Rhodes said their support has meant everything.
“Just like right now, how they’re all here, how they all put everything together,” he said. “They’re always here to show their support. It means the whole world.”
Asked about his goals going forward, Colton kept it simple.
“I just want to live my life to the fullest and do everything that I can,” he said. “Just do my best in everything and not give up.”