Markita May Suttle (2026) - Hall of Fame - Otterbein University Athletics

Otterbein University Athletics

Hall of Fame

Markita May Suttle

Class

2003
Induction

2026
Sport(s)

Women's Track and Field

A versatile and groundbreaking athlete whose achievements helped elevate the profile of Otterbein women's track and field, Markita May Suttle established herself as one of the most accomplished competitors in program history. Excelling in both hurdles and jumping events, she combined speed, athleticism, and technical skill to become a record-setting performer and a pioneer for future generations of Cardinal student-athletes.

May Suttle's most significant accomplishment came on the national stage when she became Otterbein's first female NCAA All-American, placing seventh in the 55-meter hurdles at the NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field Championships. Her achievement marked a historic milestone for the University and helped open the door for future Otterbein women to compete at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.

Throughout her career, May Suttle proved to be one of the most versatile athletes in the program. She excelled in hurdles and jumping events, consistently scoring points for the Cardinals while competing across multiple disciplines. She was a key part of Otterbein’s stretch of dominance, winning the OAC Championship in both the indoor and outdoor 2003 season.

When she graduated in 2003, May Suttle held Otterbein indoor school records in both the 55-meter hurdles and triple jump, while also owning the outdoor school record in the 100-meter hurdles. Her performances set a new standard for excellence within the program and established benchmarks that inspired future generations of Cardinals.

More than two decades later, her impact remains evident throughout the Otterbein record book. She continues to rank fifth in school history in the outdoor 100-meter hurdles and remains among the program's all-time top-10 performers in the outdoor long jump and triple jump. Indoors, she still ranks among the top 10 in the 55-meter hurdles, long jump, and triple jump.

She continues to praise Otterbein and the Westerville community for shaping so much of her life. It was through Otterbein that she met her husband, Matt, a member of the men's track and field team, and she remains deeply appreciative of the relationships, opportunities, and sense of belonging the community has provided. Her affection for the area extends to her former teammates and head coach, Doug Welsh, a 2025 Hall of Fame inductee, whose impact has remained with her long after her time on the track concluded.

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