King's senior signs letter of intent with University of Illinois

Kim Beard officially signed her national letter of intent to compete for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini during a ceremony at King’s High School in Shoreline on November 20, 2025. As a senior, Beard distinguished herself as the top-ranked prep hammer thrower in 2024 and earned a spot on the Track and Field News All-American Team. She has claimed the Washington State 1A championships for two consecutive years and won the 2024 Junior Olympic Championships, showcasing her talent on a national stage. In August 2025, Beard set a remarkable national record with a hammer throw of 186'6", surpassing the second-place finisher by 10 feet. She plans to complete her high school career with the King’s Knights in spring 2026 before heading to Champaign, Illinois, to compete in the Big Ten conference.

Beard's accomplishments position her as a promising athlete in collegiate track and field. Her signing reflects a significant milestone in her athletic journey, indicating her potential for future success. The University of Illinois will benefit from her exceptional skills and competitive spirit.