Agree with @hjbmk about filling out the online questionnaire that some schools have for prospective athletes as a pre-screen and a way to make sure NCAA compliance/contact is handled properly. Also, I think you’ll find that some coaches are very responsive to email outreach.
My question for @Ind5677 would be why wouldn’t you reach out? If you’re a runner with a mile time that might be even slightly attractive to a coach, that might just end up being a bit of a “hook” at some of the more selective schools (if you’re targeting reach schools). I can’t really see any downside to contacting a coach, and who knows, if you hit it off, s/he might send a quick email over to admissions saying you’d be a potential asset to the team.