THE HOME OF DAYTONA STATE ATHLETICS

Bio

The daughter of Debi and Stacy Bilz, Bilz-Crist attended Tavarez High School and graduated in 2013. She found her way to Daytona State College in a round about way.  After graduating from Tavarez High School in 2013, Harleigh attended University of Central Florida, but did not run.  She spent the next five years working, taking classes, and running for fitness and recreation.  In January of 2020, she found her way to Coach Judy Wilson's office.  After talking to Wilson about her high school career, and her desire to run again, she started training with the team, but things were cut short due to COVID-19 restrictions.  Harleigh went out on her own to get ready for the fall.  

2020 Season in Review:  Harleigh won the Region 8 meet and her individual win propelled the women's team to their first Region 8 title, beating Pasco Hernando by 2pts.  She then traveled to Iowa with the team and placed 17th in the NJCAA Division II National Championship, moving up from as far back as 33rd at the 1k mark.  "We just did not get off the line very well, and had to play catch up the rest of the race.  Harleigh did a great job of sticking with it and picking people off.  ust make you that much more driven.  We will work on her building strength throughout the season, and if we avoid injuries, I have no doubt she will find herself in the front pack at the Region meet."  Wilson said.  

2021 Season in Review:  Crist repeated as individual champion at the Region 8 meet, with the team earning Runner-Up status.  She would go on the nationals in Virginia, and again earn a top 20 finish.  She competed in the Half Marathon three days later, placing 17th and earning All America mention.  

2022 Season Outlook:  In her final season as a Falcon, Crist has one more shot to get that elusive All American status that she has come so close to in the last two seasons.  She completes her bachelor's degree in teaching this fall and will be joining the work force in January of 2023.     

Coach Wilson Comments:   "Harleigh has grown so much as a runner.  She has to balance school, work, family, and running and has done a great job of getting to the end of the seasons ready to go.  With the national meet in Florida, we hope to see her pull off that All American top 15 place. She is a tough competitor and has been fun to watch each and every season."  

High School Coach:  

High School Personal Records : 

• 800 meters:  2:42
• 1600 meters: 5:47  
• 3200 meters:  12:33
• 5k Cross Country:  20:40

• 1500 meters:  
• 3000 meters: 
• 5000 meters:  19:33
• 5k cross country: 19:35 
• Half Marathon: 1:32

High School Honors:   

Academic Interest:   Elementary Education

Why did you choose Daytona State College: