At Wellston High School, junior middle-distance standout Savanah Gaylord has become one of the Tigers’ most reliable competitors on the track and one of the program’s most grounded leaders off of it.
Gaylord, a multi-event athlete, competes in the 400-meter relay, 1600-meter relay, 3200-meter relay, 400-meter run, 800-meter run and high jump for Wellston. She has already built an impressive resume at the state level, qualifying in the 400 and 800 runs and the 3200 relay as a freshman in 2024, placing seventh, eighth and eighth, respectively. As a sophomore in 2025, she returned to state in the 400, 800, 1600 relay and 3200 relay, earning runner-up honors in the 800 and third-place medals in both the 1600 and 3200 relays. “Having the opportunity to stand on the podium was a tremendous blessing,” she said.
For Gaylord, those accomplishments are rooted in faith, family and the people who have poured into her journey. “I’m inspired by people who stay strong in their faith and continue to serve others regardless of their circumstances, giving glory to God in times of success and in trying times,” she said. “My family and coaches have influenced me greatly, they’ve shown me the importance of hard work, humility, and trusting in God’s plan.”
That mindset carries into her everyday life at Wellston, where her favorite class is agricultural communications and one of her favorite teachers is Mr. Coulson. “He has been a steady source of support and encouragement for many years,” Gaylord said. On meet days, she balances a demanding event schedule with intentional recovery, using breaks between races to reset mentally. “During down time between events, I focus on mentally preparing for my next race while also relaxing,” she said. “I make sure to fuel my body, stay hydrated, cheer on my teammates, and spend time hanging out with friends.”
Gaylord said the bond within the track program is one of the best parts of the sport. “We constantly support and encourage each other, push each other to do our best, and celebrate each other’s successes,” she said. “That connection makes us feel like a family and that is one of the things I enjoy the most.” Away from competition, she enjoys slowing life down and being present with the people closest to her. “Spending quality time with my friends and family means the most to me, and I really value those simple, genuine moments together,” she said.
Track has also given Gaylord lessons she believes will last long after her high school career ends. “Athletics has taught me discipline, perseverance, and how to handle both success and challenges with humility,” she said. She focuses on racing against herself rather than others. “The best advice I have been given is to focus on competing against myself and always try to improve each race,” she said. “It reminds me that progress matters more than comparison and pushing myself to persevere through the pain for ‘His Glory’ is my focus.”
Looking ahead, Gaylord plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in recreational therapy/pre-occupational therapy and hopes to continue her athletic career if the opportunity arises.
