Billy Nelson-Steeplechase

The Coach

Texas Track & Field Coaches Association

Follow

Billy Nelson, an Olympian from the 2008 games, currently serves as the assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for Buffalo's cross country and track & field program, marking his 12th year in the role. Throughout his tenure, Nelson has been instrumental in recruiting talented athletes, contributing to a total of 122 All-American honors in cross country, indoor, and outdoor track. Notably, under his guidance, walk-on Pierce Murphy emerged as a standout with eight All-America awards. Nelson's coaching has also played a pivotal role in securing 11 conference championship titles, as well as three NCAA team championships and two runner-up finishes.

Before joining the coaching staff at CU, Nelson had a successful career as an athlete. He clinched the 2011 USATF steeplechase crown and represented the U.S. at the IAAF World Championships. Additionally, Nelson secured a spot on the U.S. Olympic Team in 2008 after finishing second at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

During his collegiate years at CU, Nelson excelled as a distance runner, earning six All-America honors and three Big 12 conference titles. He was an integral part of CU's 2008 men's track and field team that secured the first Big 12 outdoor title for the university since 1947. Nelson also contributed to the 2006 NCAA Cross Country Championship team. His achievements include ranking second on CU's all-time performers list in the steeplechase event.

Nelson had notable successes in junior competitions, including winning the 2003 USA Junior Cross-Country Championship and Junior 5k championship. He represented the U.S. as the top American finisher at the World Junior Cross-Country Championships.

Nelson graduated from CU in 2008 with a degree in ethnic studies. He is married to Alisa Crane and they have four children: Arabella, Noah, Lonnie Jack, and Wyatt Watkins. Nelson hails from Taft, California.