Veteran Drea Gibson Excels as Cross-Country Runner at 40

Drea Gibson, a 40-year-old sophomore at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Texas, has made headlines for her remarkable achievements as a cross-country runner. Recently, she was named first-team all-conference in the Division III American Southwest Conference, illustrating that age and life circumstances do not define athletic potential.

Gibson’s journey is marked by a unique combination of military service and academic pursuit. After serving 20 years in the Army, where she retired as a first sergeant following five tours—two in Iraq, two in Afghanistan, and one in Ukraine—she has seamlessly transitioned into collegiate athletics. Gibson’s accomplishments are particularly significant given her status as a wife and mother of four, alongside her studies in exercise physiology.

Her military career is distinguished by accolades, including a Combat Action Badge for engaging in ground warfare. A photograph of her fist-bumping an Iraqi boy has been displayed at the Pentagon, symbolizing the role of soldiers in the Global War on Terror. Gibson’s transition from a decorated soldier to a successful college athlete serves as a counterpoint to contemporary military rhetoric, particularly amidst ongoing debates about women’s roles in combat.

Breaking Barriers in Sports and Military

Gibson’s experiences in the military have shaped her approach to athletics. She faced significant challenges, including gender discrimination, during her service. In a recent phone interview, she reflected on her time in an all-male unit, stating, “As a leader in the Army, a major goal of mine was to ensure that I treated all of my soldiers equally.” This commitment to equality was sometimes tested by her male counterparts, who expressed reluctance to include her in certain activities.

Her military career began with a strong sense of duty after the events of September 11, 2001, while she was still in high school. After enlisting, she trained as a counterintelligence agent, often being one of the only women in her unit. Gibson faced unique hardships, such as limited access to shower facilities and being subjected to hazing activities. “They thought it was funny,” she recalled, describing an incident where she was covered in dirt shortly after showering.

This environment fueled her passion for running. “I started to run. Farther and farther. To release my anger and hide my hurt,” she explained. The discipline she cultivated in the military translated well to her athletic pursuits, allowing her to excel on the cross-country team.

Advocating for Women in Combat

Gibson’s story gains further resonance in light of recent decisions made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has been criticized for sidelining women from significant military roles and halting the promotion of the first woman set to oversee the Navy SEALs. Gibson’s success challenges Hegseth’s views and highlights the capabilities of women in combat roles.

Gibson shared her perspective on the physical training standards within the Army, noting that while she could achieve maximum scores on the female standard, she often fell short of the male standard. “Objectively speaking, it doesn’t feel fair,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment in promotion opportunities.

Despite the challenges she faced, Gibson remains an inspiration to younger generations. Recently, she encouraged a young runner who sought advice about pursuing a military career. This interaction illustrates the path Gibson has helped forge, one of empowerment and opportunity for women in both sports and the military.

As Gibson continues to balance her roles as a student, athlete, and mother, her resilience serves as a testament to the strength of women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her story not only highlights personal achievement but also underscores the evolving landscape of military and athletic opportunities for women.