Seattle Pacific University Athletics

Sinewy, but slight of build; quiet, but capable of speaking volumes through her never-ceasing stride, Bente Moe is the best-ever distance runner in Seattle Pacific’s grand history of track and cross country.

Moe was already an Olympian before coming to the Falcons. In fact, it was at an international meet that the Norwegian marathoner met her future coach, Doris Heritage.

Moe claimed an NCAA cross country title in her first season and went on to win a pair of track crowns at both 5,000 and 10,000 meters. She set a Division II record in the latter that still remains nearly 20 years later.

Although few could match her endurance, what truly set Moe apart from her peers was her persistence and patience in a race, and her dedication and loyalty as an individual. Whatever the cause, no matter the sacrifice, she would persevere.

Those qualities made Moe a model for consistency at the highest level. She finished first, second or third in 11 NCAA championships races, and graduated as a 12-time All-American, an Academic All-American and an NCAA postgraduate scholar.

Moe returned to Norway and now lives in the town of Skien, where she is a software programmer.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS (1985-89)

• Five-time NCAA champion in distance events.

• 12-time All-American.

• Two-time Olympian for Norway.

• Houston Marathon champion; fourth in 1987 World Championships.

• Academic All-American.

• NCAA postgraduate scholar.