Carmen Graves began distance running after becoming a 5 time All-American in the 800m at Roanoke College where she also played soccer. After college she decided to opted to pursue pro running. She found the 3k steeplechase which tested her endurance, speed, and athletic abilities.
Like many elite runners, Carmen prioritizes her training outside of long work hours. She works in the non-profit sector as a Program Advisor for the Center of Work Education and Employment, coaches horizontal jumps at Englewood High School, and is the meet director for the Denver Twilight Mile.
Despite a full schedule, she is training hard, competing regularly in bigger track events, and has her sights set on some big goals: making the US team in steeplechase and qualifying again for the Olympic Trials in 2024.
You can follow Carmen at www.instagram.com/carmenpelar.
Accomplishments

Team USA 3k Steeple NACAC
7th place US Outdoor Champs 3k Steeple
2 x Olympic Trials Qualifier
3 x Penn Relay 3k Steeple Champion
2 x Melrose Games Distance Medley Relay Champions
Top 10, 2014 USATF Outdoor Championships 3k Steeple
7th place 3k at USATF Indoor Championships
15th place USATF Road 5k Championships