St. Mary’s Elite Runner Anna Ptaszek Signs with the University of Arizona
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School’s Anna Ptaszek will be trading in her blue and yellow team colours for blue and red, as she officially committed to the University of Arizona on a track and cross-country scholarship.
Ptaszek’s journey as a runner has been marked by outstanding performances, relentless work ethic, and unwavering dedication. Her ability to push herself beyond her limits has made her one of the most accomplished athletes to come through the school.
This fall, she captured the GHAC championship, setting a new personal best of 20:38 over 6 km. Her success built upon an impressive summer season where she placed third at the U20 Track Provincials, running another personal best of 9:53 in the 3000 metres.
Anna’s current personal bests highlight her consistency and growth:
1500 metres – 4:31
3000 metres – 9:53
6 km cross-country – 20:35
Beyond her results, Ptaszek is known for her focus, mental toughness, and quiet determination. Whether it is early-morning training sessions or the final stretch of a race, she continually finds a way to dig deeper and give her best.
“The St. Mary community could not be prouder of Anna’s accomplishments and the example she sets for her peers,” said Coach Robert Zaccaria. “Her combination of athletic excellence and personal integrity has inspired teammates, coaches, and younger athletes alike.”
Below is an overview of Ptaszek’s accomplishments in both track and field and cross country over the past four years:
GHAC Track and Field
1500m: 2nd overall in 2023 (Novice), 2024 (Junior), and 2025 (Senior)
3000m: 1st overall in 2023 (Novice), 2024 (Junior), and 2025 (Senior)
(GHAC record holder with a time of 10:08.60)
GHAC Cross Country
Novice Girls 4km: 2nd overall in 2022
Junior Girls 5km: 2nd overall in 2023
Senior Girls 6km: 1st overall in 2024 and 2025
OFSAA Track and Field
1500m: 7th overall (Novice), 10th overall (Junior), 6th overall (Senior)
3000m: 5th overall (Novice), 6th overall (Junior), 8th overall (Senior)
OFSAA Cross Country
Novice Girls 4km: 32nd overall in 2022
Junior Girls 5km: 4th overall in 2023
Senior Girls 6km: 16th overall in 2024
“Her consistent performance year after year reflects her resilience and determination to improve. From a strong regional contender to a top-5 provincial finisher at OFSAA, and ultimately a multi-year GHAC champion, Anna’s journey is marked by steady progress and personal excellence.”
“Even when results didn’t meet her expectations, Anna found motivation in surpassing her personal bests. I always smile when Anna celebrates a new personal best time,” added Coach Zaccaria.
“It shows that no matter the result, she is always driven by personal growth.”
“As Anna prepares to take the next step in her athletic and academic journey at the University of Arizona, we wish her every success in the exciting chapter ahead.”
Photo courtesy of University of Arizona