As part of the Hoka One Future Stars program, MileSplit is highlighting some of the top underclass cross country runners throughout the country. Our next profile will feature Liz Mancini of Cardinal O'Hara. Mancini played a major role for her team and their push to their best state meet finish in school history. Liz was accompanied by sisters Grace and Eleanor to a 3rd place state finish. Liz finished in the top 20 eight times in nine appearances, with five finishes in the top 10. Liz talked to PennTrack about her first season.
Tell us how you got started with competitive running.
My older sister, Grace, ran Philadelphia CYO cross country, and I saw how much fun she was having, and how well she was doing and I really wanted to run. Once I joined, I loved running as well!
What were some of your goals heading into this season?
I didn’t really know what to expect coming into the season. I just wanted to have fun and do my best.
What did the coaches expect from you this season?
The coaches didn’t put any pressure on me. The coaches and all the girls on the team have a really good bond.
How nervous were you for your first race? What did you want to accomplish?
I was a little bit nervous for my first race, but I saw how calm my teammates were and it helped me ease my nerves. Also, my older sister, Grace, gave me and my twin sister, Eleanor, tips on how to run each course. I didn’t really have a goal. I just went out and ran.
Talk about the one race that gave you the belief that you could be really good this season.
I ran my one of my best races at Paul Short. My team came in second by a small margin and that’s when we started to believe we could compete with the best teams in the country.
How have you gotten along with your older teammates as you have moved up the ranks of the team?
Everyone on my team is always very supportive. We all want the best for each other and the team.
How did your goals change going into the big meets?
In the beginning of the season I didn’t really have any goals or know what to expect. As the season continued my goal was to keep knocking time off and to prepare myself for the state championship.
Has running become your favorite sport? Why or why not?
Yes, running is definitely my favorite sport. One of the reasons I love running is because it’s something my sisters and I all do together. During the summer, my sisters and I had a lot of fun running because we were always joking around and having a good time.
Which course has been your favorite to run? Least favorite?
I really enjoy running at Belmont Plateau because that is where I have been running my whole life. I don’t have a least favorite.
What are you most excited about going forward as a runner?
I’m really excited for my next three years at O’Hara. I love being a part of the team. I’m also really excited for my younger sister, Christine, to join the O’Hara team next year.
