Colorado University Athletics
Wearing the Buff with Pride: Avery Pearson’s Breakout Season
March 26, 2026 | Track and Field
BOULDER – Avery Pearson's first season at Colorado set a high bar.
In her first year with the Buffs, the middle-distance standout quickly established herself as one of the top 800-meter runners in the country. Pearson broke the school record with a time of 1:59.98@ and qualified for the NCAA Indoor Championships, capping a breakthrough indoor campaign.
A transfer from the University of Saskatchewan and a former U20 World Championships 800m finalist for Canada, Pearson carried that momentum beyond the collegiate stage, earning the opportunity to represent her country in the 800 meters at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships.
Now, with her first season in Boulder behind her, Pearson reflected on her transition to Colorado, her growth throughout the year and what it meant to compete on the world stage.
INTERVIEW
Now that you've wrapped up your first season at Colorado, how would you describe the experience overall and what it meant to you?
"I think it's been a super special experience, especially coming into my first season at CU and in the NCAA system. Everyone was really welcoming when I first arrived, and I've been blown away by the support we have, the resources, the coaching staff, and my teammates. We have a really good program here, and I feel grateful to be part of it and to make an impact right away."
You made an immediate impact this year, including breaking the 800m school record—looking back, what do you think clicked for you so quickly in a new environment?
"Right away, Carlson wanted to fill in some gaps I had, especially on the training side with my aerobic engine and threshold work. I already had my speed developed, so combining that with new aerobic work helped me adapt quickly. It took a few months and some patience through the fall season, but by February, everything really came together."
You had the opportunity to represent Canada at the World Indoor Championships—what was that experience like, and what did you take away from competing on that stage?
"This was my first senior team, though I had made U20 and U23 teams before. Competing against big names was impactful, and it showed me that my dreams aren't just far away—they're realistic. I'm taking steps every day to make competing for my country and succeeding on the world stage a reality. It was a lot of fun, and it's always an honor to represent Canada."
This season came together in a big way for you, from joining a new team to competing at the world level—how did you stay grounded through it all?
"Embracing a new environment, coaching staff, and training program pushed me, but I also stuck to what has worked for me in the past. Recovery, support systems, and staying connected with friends and family back home really helped me stay grounded."
What did you learn about yourself during this season, both as an athlete and as a person?
"I've learned that I belonged here the whole time and that nothing about me needs to change after a big result. My breakthroughs happen with consistency, showing up every day, and putting in the work. Hard work pays off eventually, and what I'm doing now will get me to bigger goals—one step at a time."
When you think back on the year, what moment stands out the most to you?
"Running a sub-two at our home meet stands out as my favorite moment. Hearing my teammates cheer and support me made it so fun and memorable."
How has being part of the Colorado program shaped your growth in your first year?
"It's an honor to wear the Buff on my chest. This is a historic program with so many successful runners before me, and I want to do my best to represent it well. Being part of this program has pushed me to grow while also appreciating those who came before me."
After a season like this, how are you carrying that momentum into the outdoor season and beyond?
"I've been reflecting on what worked really well this season. I don't need to change much—just build off it, keep growing, push myself in training, and step on the line with confidence. There's a lot more to come, but it comes from staying persistent and striving to improve every day."
For more information on the Colorado track and field team, a complete schedule and results, please visit CUBuffs.com. Fans of the Buffs can follow the team on Instagram and on Twitter @CUBuffsTrack.
Players Mentioned
