Giacomo Lepore
North Catholic
Junior
Favorite XC Course: I don’t have a favorite, but I prefer courses with hills.

How did you get started in cross-country ?
I started as a sprinter in track in 4th grade, and finally tried XC in 7th grade when my coach (Coach Jack White) suggested that I try cross-country. I did not think that I would enjoy it since I only liked 100-400m races at the time, but I really enjoyed it from my first meet (The Vincentian Invitational).  I did not however switch to distance track until the last 3 weeks of my 8th grade track season.  

What do you enjoy most about cross-country?
My favorite part of cross-country is racing at the big Invitationals. They are always exciting and filled with the best runners, and I feel a sense of accomplishment by pushing myself as hard as I can against them.

Do you have a favorite cross-country memory or race?
My favorite cross-country memory is at the start of my first race in 7th grade. Since this was my first ever cross-country race, I did not know how to pace myself. Once the race started, I sprinted to the lead and was winning for probably the first 400-500 meters. After that I was exhausted, but still managed to finish in 7th, which I felt good about since it was my first long distance race.

What are your goals for this cross-country season?
After missing all last season, I wanted to get off to a fast start this season and get my times into the 15-minute range.  Since I achieved that goal by the middle of the season, I will keep pushing myself to lower my times each meet.  At the WPIAL championship I hope to place in the top 5 and run under 15:40, followed by a high placement and low 16 time at States.

What is your favorite cross-country workout or training session?
My favorite workout in cross-country is my 10/1000 run.  It’s a 10 mile(+) run with over 1000 feet of elevation gain. I get to really enjoy the experience of a long run and my odd desire to run hills. The steeper the hills the better. I never met a hill I didn’t like!

How has cross-country running impacted your life outside the sport?
Due to the physical requirement and determination to do well in cross-country, I have learned that I need to push myself every day to get better. I also try to use that same determination in school, and anything else that I want to improve upon. Running also helps to get my mind off school and to focus on something that I really enjoy.

Can you describe the bond and support you share with your coach? How does their guidance influence your running journey? My Coach, (Coach Tim Souders), is an awesome coach. This track season was the first time he coached me since I did not get to run cross-country last year due to an injury. He helped me come back from my injury and get back into shape through the track season. He has really trained me this summer to improve my endurance and get me ready for cross-country this year.

After making a triumphant return from a sophomore season injury, Giacomo is now in the best shape of his life. He showcased his remarkable talent by winning the Youthtowne Clash with an impressive sub-16-minute performance. Giacomo’s dedication has earned him a spot among the top 10 runners in a fiercely competitive boys’ AA field. As he prepares for the WPIAL final, we’re looking forward to him bringing his A-game. If he does, there’s a good chance he’ll clock in at under 15:30 on the lightning-fast course at White Oak Park.

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