LSU’s women’s track and field and cross-country programs have announced the signing of Natalie Venkataraman from Baton Rouge High School, as confirmed by Head Coach Dennis Shaver. Venkataraman will be part of a strong class of freshmen for 2024 that includes Maddie Gump, Jenna Key, Ahry Comer, Anna Pierce, Yuya Sawada, and Taylor Tarpley.

Expressing her excitement about joining LSU, Venkataraman mentioned the welcoming atmosphere created by Coach Houston Franks and the team during the recruitment process. She was drawn to LSU because of the team’s cohesiveness and shared motivation to achieve success. Venkataraman is particularly looking forward to meeting her fellow signees and competing in meets across the country while representing LSU.

A standout athlete in Baton Rouge, Venkataraman has achieved significant success at the state level, earning three runner-up finishes in the 1600 meters with personal-best times of 4:57.43 (indoors) and 5:11.80 (outdoors). She also secured a runner-up spot in the 3200 meters, with PRs of 11:08.80 (indoors) and 11:18.05 (outdoors). In addition to her success on the track, Venkataraman has recorded a personal-best time of 2:15.33 in the 800 meters and impressive cross-country performances, including PRs of 13:17.4 in the two-mile, 18:10.4 in the three-mile, and 19:03.8 in the 5000 meters.

Venkataraman’s addition underscores LSU’s commitment to strengthening its women’s track and field and cross-country programs with talented athletes who have a proven track record of success at both the state and national levels.