If you were a top HS distance runner, where would you commit?

I would start my own track club, vlog it, and be a celebrity.

The very best school I could get in and afford. These factors are far more important in your life.

Based on resources, commitment, facilities, tradition, competetive opportunities, team atmosphere, and training partners it has to be Arkansas and Oregon. Because Arkansas is in the SEC probably has the edge.

IMO NAU or Stanford. I don't think you can beat Stanford from an academics/running combo perspective; however, NAU or Oregon if you have international aspirations.

Can't edit. I meant NAU, Oregon or Stanford...

Arkansas is another great School

Gotta be Stanford.

Interesting contrast of experiences. What about Princeton? Colorado? Ive seen their athletes and others including NAU and Iowa St do well at a high level for a long time. Really depends on what you want and if you are capable of understanding what each program can offer.

Ive been in and around both the Arkansas and Oregon programs since the early 80's. A person better be able to compete on a daily and yearly basis for a top spot just to suit up and travel. That may mean some academic sacrifice. Plenty of places to get the competitive experience without the daily training grind and temptation of over training/racing just to stay on the travel roster.

I would go to Stanford -great academic school, strong athletics program, great year-round weather for training.

Then, after getting an undergrad degree at Stanford, I would pursue a 1yr Masters program at NAU and do a 5th year there so I could have a good shot at winning a team XC title

why not do 5 years at stanford? NAU is not the only school that can win a title

If Stanford calls, you shut up and listen. The academics and athletic opportunities are outstanding.

My other top picks in no particular order would be Oregon, NC State, UNC, NAU, Furman, Princeton, Arkansas, Alabama, Michigan, Colorado, Portland, Ole Miss, Virginia.

I'm sure I missed a few others that I wouldn't turn away.

I'd go to Notre Dame. The team is good enough that a top runner has training partners and a chance to excel. The campus is beautiful, the traditions and school culture are awesome, and it's very good academically. Might not be a universal top choice but it should be in the conversation.

YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY!!!

nau.

The indoor facility is cool there

Definitely not NAU. I hate the entire Flagstaff vibe.
Definitely not Oregon as I prefer distance to middle distance.

As a runner I would choose Colorado as I think Mark Wetmore is brilliant.
As a student athlete I would choose Stanford.

How top do you mean? NN Running Team.

My criteria in order would be:

1) Has my degree

2) Full ride

3) Like the team culture and guys on the team

4) Like the weather in the area