Sheridan’s Chance Morris Aims to Elevate Wyoming Sprinting

Sheridan High School’s Chance Morris is making a name for himself on the track, using his speed to highlight Wyoming’s growing reputation in sprinting, The Sheridan Press reports.

His success has not only brought attention to his own abilities but also to the rising level of competition within the state.

Morris has been involved in athletics since kindergarten, starting with soccer before adding football to his routine. However, it wasn’t until his sophomore year that he decided to switch gears and join the track team—a move that would ultimately shape his athletic career.

“I was pretty bad at the start, I didn’t really know what I was doing,” Morris admitted.

But with guidance from senior teammates, he quickly adapted. In his first season, he placed third in the 200-meter dash at the state championships, revealing his natural speed and competitive potential.

Sheridan’s head track coach, Taylor Kelting, recognized Morris’ determination early on.

“The fundamentals are going to drive him,” Kelting said. “He was always absorbing information, he knew what he wanted to do. He kept getting better and more efficient in everything that he did.”

Morris took this drive and turned it into a personal mission: to help Wyoming sprinters gain recognition.

“Wyoming isn’t really covered by the media,” Morris explained. “My passion is really to put Wyoming out there and the whole sprint group. The sprinters are sprouting; we are not just a distance state anymore. Our competition is improving.”

One of the biggest opportunities for Wyoming athletes to test themselves against national competition comes at the Simplot Games in Pocatello, Idaho. Last season, Morris struggled with nerves in his debut at the event, but this year, with greater confidence, he excelled—winning the 200-meter dash despite battling the flu.

His victory surprised many athletes from other states, challenging the perception that Wyoming sprinters couldn’t compete at a high level. The win also caught the attention of college scouts, opening doors to potential opportunities outside the state.

Morris carried that momentum into the Wyoming Indoor Track and Field State Championships on March 7-8, where he won both the 55-meter and 200-meter dashes, setting a state record in the 200-meter.

“I never place first in the prelims because I never perform well unless there is competition,” Morris said. “Being in second heading into the final race, I knew I was in a great place. I also knew my 55-meter would be great. We were neck-and-neck most of the year, but I think I had more confidence than them.”

With little time to reflect on his success, Morris has already turned his attention to the outdoor track season.

“I know that I am fast and can win, I just have to keep working hard. If I get complacent, then other people are going to beat me,” Morris said. “I have people on my tail, I just have to keep my nose on the grindstone and make sure I don’t give up.”