By Chris Cox

When Bartlesville High School’s Campbell Barta first started running track in middle school, she admittedly didn’t have anything specific she wanted to accomplish but, now as a junior, she says track has made a big impact in her life.

“I started track in seventh grade and was just going to do it for fun and I didn’t have any goals,” she says. “But in high school, I really started to like it and kept doing it. I think it’s really helped me grow mentally and taught me a good work ethic. I just enjoy it.”

While that mental toughness and work ethic clearly helps on the track with the numerous events she competes in, Barta also sees those things showing up off the track as well.

“Being mentally strong and having a good ethic really helps in school,” she says. “It’s help me get through a lot. If there’s a tough test or something, it’s helped me stay strong.”

That mental toughness and work ethic are only part of the reason why Campbell Barta is a “Character Counts” athlete. She is also someone who does all she can to build up those around her.

“I try to be a good person. Not just on the track but in the classroom too,” she says. “I just try to be genuine, nice to others, and kind to others.”

Barta credits her mom and dad with helping her become the person she is today.

“My parents have taught me what character means,” she says. “They taught me to be good to everyone, kind to everyone, encouraging, and supportive.”

On the track, Barta is busy competing in the 100, 200, 400, long jump, and relays and says she has her sights on keeping that busy schedule at the state meet.

“I want to be better than I was last year,” she says. “I want to take at least four events back to state again this year. I don’t know if it’ll be the same four events (200, 400, long jump, and 4×200 relay) but that’s my goal for the season. And I want to equal those results from last year or do better.”

Off the track, Campbell is a part of the Bartlesville student council. After high school, Campbell hopes to run track in college, although she does not know where she wants to run.