WashU Senior Kylie Spytek Breaks Two NCAA Records in Final Indoor Meet

Spytek's record-breaking performances helped the Bears capture their second NCAA Women's Indoor Track and Field Championship.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:10am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic, explosive movement of a female track and field athlete sprinting across the frame, capturing the energy and intensity of collegiate competition.Kylie Spytek's record-breaking performances at the NCAA Indoor Championships showcase the raw athletic power and team-first spirit that have defined her standout collegiate career.Today in Birmingham

In her final indoor track and field meet at Washington University in St. Louis, senior Kylie Spytek broke NCAA Division III records in the 4x400 meter relay and the distance medley relay, leading the Bears to their second NCAA team championship. Spytek, a crucial part of the record-setting relay teams, reflected on the energy and teamwork that fueled her success over her four-year career.

Why it matters

Spytek's accomplishments cap off an impressive collegiate running career, as she has earned numerous All-American honors, UAA championships, and All-UAA selections during her time at WashU. Her ability to excel in both individual and relay events highlights the well-rounded talent of this standout student-athlete.

The details

At the NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field Championships in Birmingham, Alabama, Spytek helped the Bears set new NCAA records in the 4x400 meter relay and the distance medley relay, events that require a combination of speed and endurance. Spytek noted that the energy of competing in an enclosed indoor space, as well as the teamwork required for relays, have been key factors in her success over the years.

  • Spytek competed in Birmingham as a first-year in 2023, placing third in the 4x400 meter relay.
  • At the 2026 NCAA Indoor Championships, Spytek broke the 4x400 meter relay and distance medley relay records.
  • Earlier in the 2026 season, Spytek won both the individual 400 meter race and the 4x400 meter relay at the WashU Invite.

The players

Kylie Spytek

A senior on the Washington University in St. Louis track and field team, Spytek has been a standout performer throughout her collegiate career, earning numerous All-American and All-UAA honors.

Washington University in St. Louis

The NCAA Division III school where Spytek competes, WashU won its second NCAA Women's Indoor Track and Field Championship thanks in large part to Spytek's record-breaking performances.

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What they’re saying

“It was the perfect culmination of the past four years. I've always enjoyed the indoor season a lot. It just felt like the energy was amazing in such an enclosed space, and it's different than the energy you get in the outdoor season.”

— Kylie Spytek, Senior, Washington University in St. Louis Track and Field

“We always say, when we get a baton in our hands, it's a different type of energy that you get because you're not just running for yourself. You're running for the three other people. A slogan that we have with our team is 'not for me, for them.'”

— Kylie Spytek, Senior, Washington University in St. Louis Track and Field

What’s next

Spytek is looking to build on her indoor success and score individual points for the Bears at the upcoming outdoor track and field championships, as the team aims to defend its NCAA title.

The takeaway

Kylie Spytek's record-breaking performances and leadership on the relay teams highlight the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in collegiate track and field, as well as the drive and determination required to excel at the highest level of competition.