Spearfish standout Peyton VanDeest has been selected to represent Spearfish High School in the elite Special 800 Friday night at the Howard Wood Relays. The junior will line up in Lane 5 against top half‑milers from South Dakota, North Dakota, and Nebraska.
VanDeest enters as one of the most decorated distance runners in state history. She was the 2025 Class AA runner‑up in the 800, and placed third in both the 1600 and 3200. She also owns South Dakota’s No. 1 indoor 800 time this season at 2:10.91, and ranks among the top 10 all‑time in the 800, 1600, 3200, and medley relay.
A 19x state medalist, VanDeest is the 2024 Howard Wood 3200 champion, the 2026 South Dakota Gatorade Cross Country Athlete of the Year, and a five‑time All‑State XC honoree. She also holds five Spearfish High School records.
She is coached by Aaron Nida and Andy VanDeest.
The Special 800 is one of the signature events of the Howard Wood Relays, showcasing the region’s top middle‑distance talent.
