FORT YATES, N.D. — Senior Briauna Thompson has become a standout name in Class B cross‑country, leading Standing Rock High School to a regional title and a second straight Lakota Nation Invitational victory. Her achievements highlight how hard work and community support can lift a small‑town athlete onto the state stage.
Early drive and family motivation
Thompson began running in elementary school, inspired by a personal goal: to beat her mother’s 5K time. “I always wanted to beat her 5K time, which was somewhere in the low‑20s,” she recalled. When she finally ran faster, her mother laughed and said, “I’m so proud of you.” That family encouragement sparked a competitive fire that has driven Thompson throughout her high‑school career.
Dominating the Class B circuit
Now a three‑sport athlete, Thompson has emerged as Standing Rock’s No. 1 runner. She captured the Class B regional title this season, setting a new personal record in the process. Head coach Craig Eagleshield praised her energy and leadership, noting that teammates often pace each other because of her example. “She’s very, very energetic, and a lot of her teammates look up to her,” Eagleshield said.
Back‑to‑back Lakota Nation Invitational wins
Thompson’s momentum continued at the Lakota Nation Invitational, where she claimed her second consecutive title. “I always tell myself, ‘Push yourself, make it hard for yourself,’” she explained, a mindset that has helped her stand out among the best in Class B. The victory is especially meaningful given her small‑school background, a point she emphasized in post‑race comments. “It makes me really happy for myself because I’m one of the top runners, and coming from a small school like this is really cool,” she said.
Looking ahead to the state meet
With the North Dakota state meet approaching, Thompson and Coach Eagleshield believe her best performance may still be ahead. “I think she still has a lot, you know. I could see another PR coming in the state,” Eagleshield noted, expressing confidence that Thompson could set another personal record on the larger stage.
Future plans beyond cross‑country
After her cross‑country season ends, Thompson will shift focus to basketball and track. She aims to break her school’s 1,600‑meter record and add more accolades before graduating. Her community and coaches expect her to remain a role model for younger athletes, demonstrating that dedication and faith can overcome the limitations of a small‑town setting.
Thompson’s story underscores the importance of family support, community pride, and personal perseverance—values that resonate deeply in Fort Yates and across the Lakota Nation.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
