“As long as he is surrounded by the right people… No matter what, he’s going to do great things.” This is what Stan Holloway, Grant Holloway’s father, had to say after watching him scare the 110m hurdles world record qualifying for Paris 2024 Olympics. Katie Chronister, who has been in a relationship with Grant, stands as one of his “right people” while being a former NCAA star athlete herself.

Their relationship had marked seven years in 2024. A dinner date and trip away from the celebration between Grant Holloway and his girlfriend Katie evolved into a spectacular Paris visit. But who exactly is this woman behind the hurdles champion?

Who is Katie Chronister?

Katie Chronister has been by Grant Holloway’s side for years. Growing up in Gainesville, she’s no stranger to elite competition herself, being a former softball standout. She perfectly understands all the requirements for excelling under intense circumstances. Could that be the reason these two seem to become excellent partners? Absolutely! Born on February 22, 1998, Katie is a former softball player.

She played softball at Gainesville High School, where she won awards including the 2016 Florida Gatorade Player of the Year, and guided her team to its first-ever appearance in the FHSAA State Tournament. And, not to mention, her performance in the sport extended beyond competence because she completely dominated everything around her. Katie achieved a 2.03 ERA during her junior season while becoming one of the recipients of the SEC Academic Honor Roll and Easton/NFCA All-American Scholar-Athlete recognition for that year.

Katie Chronister pursued her passion for athletics both on and off the field, earning a bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance from the University of Florida in 2020.  The Florida native achieved a 1.08 ERA and remained undefeated while playing 10 matches in her senior season at Florida until COVID-19 ended the academic year in 2020. During her initial season in 2017, she contributed to the Florida Gators’ SEC Championship victory, and she repeated that achievement, not once but twice, with the team in 2021.

Furthermore, in addition to her accomplished high school and college athletic career, she serves as pitching coach for the Santa Fe College softball team under head coach Savannah Webster. The position requires Katie to demonstrate her athletic abilities and mentorship skills, but beyond doubt, she remains flawlessly intact. A competitor, a scholar, and a fierce supporter—no wonder Katie and Grant are such a power couple!

What is Katie Chronister’s profession?

Katie Chronister is a softball player and coach and her impact on softball extends beyond her years as a collegiate athlete. As a left-handed pitcher for the Florida Gators from 2017 to 2021, she played a vital role in the team’s success, contributing to three SEC Championship victories. Her experience competing at the highest level now shapes her approach as a coach, allowing her to train and mentor young players with firsthand knowledge of what it takes to excel.

Currently, she serves as the pitching coach for the Santa Fe College softball team, where she applies her expertise to develop athletes both technically and mentally. While coaching remains her primary focus, Chronister is also expanding her understanding of the sports industry. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Sport Management at the University of Florida, equipping herself with the strategic and administrative skills needed to further her career in athletics. By combining hands-on coaching with academic growth, she continues to influence the next generation of softball players while preparing for broader opportunities in the field.

When did Grant Holloway start dating Katie Chronister?

It all started at the University of Florida, where the two student-athletes, each chasing their dreams, crossed paths in the most unexpected way. Katie had no idea that the guy was living just one floor above her. “Who knew that the boy that lived on the floor above me… would become my partner for life?” Katie shared this four years back on their anniversary.

What started as casual encounters in the dorms turned into a loving relationship that proved to endure every obstacle and triumph throughout their evolving years. The memory expressed by Katie demonstrated how life remains unpredictable, yet filled with beauty. By praising her partnership, Katie honored both the timeline with her love and the countless sacrifices and steadfast backing, which developed into a lifelong partnership.

Seven years later, that same partnership remains just as strong. Through college, career transitions, and the pressures of elite sports, their bond has only deepened. To mark their 7th anniversary in 2024, Grant shared his heartfelt tribute to Katie, a rare glimpse into how much she truly means to him. “Honored to share this journey of growth alongside you. Grateful for your unwavering support that has carried us through every challenge and celebration. You are a key piece to the puzzle,” he wrote. Katie has been there with him through the grueling training sessions and setbacks. Even in his chase for Olympic gold in Paris, that woman was right there.

Was Katie Chronister present for the Paris Olympics?

Not just his parents, but Grant’s biggest supporter—his girlfriend, Katie — stood among his family as he chased history. While his father, Stan, who once coached him and his brother Trey at the Track 757 Club, stood proudly in the stands, it was Katie’s presence that added an extra layer of comfort and motivation for the hurdler.

Grant Holloway accomplished his lifelong dream by winning Olympic gold in Paris, which marked the end of his three-year quest that started when he won silver at Tokyo 2021. His gold-winning race took place at France’s biggest stadium in front of an excited crowd of 80,000 audience members during these Games when empty stands had become common during the pandemic.

The hurdles dispersed before Holloway as he effortlessly crossed them to achieve an unbelievable 12.99-second time in the 100m hurdles, which cemented his position in history. Training constituted only one aspect of the journey toward Paris because balance stood as vital as preparation. The public was taken aback to spot Grant training with Katie along hilly mountain trails instead of using his Florida practice track in early June.

That’s why Katie was right there with him, from the mountain trails to Hayward Field on June 30, where she watched him grin after his victory at the U.S. Trials. Grant achieved his Olympic dream in Paris, while Katie dedicated herself to her profession and master’s degree in sports management. Their connection remains as strong as ever.