Malanya Gaines — senior track portrait

Meet Malanya Gaines, 400/800

Denver native Malanya Gaines is a dedicated student-athlete from Centennial, Colorado, competing for Eaglecrest High School and Angel Flight Track Club. A member of the Class of 2027, she specializes in the 400m and 800m while also contributing in the 200m and relay events.

Since beginning her track journey at the age of seven, Malanya has competed year-round in both USATF and AAU meets, traveling across the country to compete against some of the nation’s top athletes. She is known for her strong work ethic, consistency, competitive mindset, and ability to finish races with determination.

Malanya balances challenging academics with training and competition, maintaining a 3.6 weighted GPA while planning to pursue a degree in Forensic Psychology. Beyond the track, she is an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and Eaglecrest’s Nest Network broadcasting team.

Driven by a desire to continually improve, Malanya is excited for the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level.

INSIDE MY  Track Journey

I have been passionate about track and field since I was seven years old. Running has taught me discipline, perseverance, and the value of trusting the process. Whether I’m racing the 400m or 800m, I love attacking races with strength, strategy, and a strong finish.

Since I began competing, I have qualified for the USATF Junior Olympics every year, giving me the opportunity to race against some of the best athletes in the country while growing both mentally and physically.

As a freshman at Eaglecrest High School, I helped my team capture a Colorado State Championship as a member of the 4×100-meter relay team and competed at the prestigious Oregon Relays. During my sophomore season, I helped lead Eaglecrest’s 4×400-meter relay team to a League Championship.

Entering my junior season, I played a key role in helping Eaglecrest win the Girls League Team Championship. I contributed valuable team points by competing in the 4×200-meter relay, 4×400-meter relay, 4×800-meter relay, and the open 800m. Our team finished second overall, and I was proud to help elevate our team’s success by contributing across multiple events throughout the championship season.

Every season pushes me to become stronger, faster, and more confident. I embrace hard work, enjoy competing alongside my teammates, and look forward to continuing my athletic and academic journey at the collegiate level.

Highlights

Personal Records
200m: 25.3 (Elevation)
400m: 57.6 (Elevation)
800m: 2:18 (Elevation)


Academic
Class of 2027
Eaglecrest High School
Centennial, Colorado
3.6 Weighted GPA

CHSAA Academic First Team All-State
Intended Major: Forensic Psychology


Athletic
Height: 5’4″
400m / 800m Specialist

Varsity Team (Freshmen, Sophomore & Junior Year)
Contributes in the 200m and relay events
Colorado State Title (4×100 Relay)
Oregon Relays Competitor
League Champion (4×400 Relay Sophomore & Junior Year)

League Champion (4×800 Junior Year)
Girls Centennial League Team Champion
Qualified for the USATF Junior Olympics every year since age 7
Year-round USATF & AAU Competitor
Club Team: Angel Flight Track Club: Coach: Wayne Vaden & Coach Fred VanRemortel
High School Coach: Amy Teague

Leadership & Involvement
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
Nest Network Broadcasting Team
Committed to leadership, teamwork, and serving her school community

Delta Gems