Desert Academy’s Bacon set to join Princeton Tigers

Desert Acadmey's Bacon was an integral member of the Wildcat cross-country and track programs. Photo by Holly Patterson.

On Thursday April 30, Desert Academy's Taylor Bacon committed to run cross-country and track at Princeton University in Princeton, NJ.

Bacon was a force for the Wildcat's on the cross-country course, competing in five State Cross Country Championships. Bacon made her presence known beginning with a second place finish in the 1A race in 2012, an individual 1A championship in 2013, and a runner-up placing in the 2014 3A race.

On the track, Bacon holds Personal best of: 1:03.84 (400), 2:20.74 (800), 5:18.89 (1600), and 21:11.00 (3200). Bacon's 5:18.89 is the current 2A State Record for the 1600, which she set at the 2014 NMAA 1A-2A State Track and Field Championships.

What clinched the decision for the school you signed with: I had a very difficult time making my final decision but when it came down to it both Princeton's Engineering School and the resources available to undergraduates were very appealing and when I was invited to run it closed the deal!

What is your favorite track event: My favorite track event is probably the 800.

Of New Mexico's two competitive seasons, which do you prefer, fall or spring? I prefer track over cross-country.

What is your favorite high school athletic memory: My favorite high school athletic memory is probably from last track season when I set a state record in the 1600m. Coming around the final curve and seeing my time was one of the most amazing experiences.

Bacon leading the field in a meet earlier this spring. Photo by Wink Bacon.