Athlete Name: Kaitlyn Lacy
School: Male
What was your most memorable meet and why?
Dream Mile 2017. I surprised myself that day finally breaking 5.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I have faced some incredibly talented girls at Great American, Palatine, and Eastern Relays, and here at home.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?
The "balance". Learning to manage everything and be successful. Academics, scheduling, jobs, training, conditioning, social life...and making it all work. I am blessed to have a great support system, family, coaching staff, and friends that are supportive in helping me reach my goals. Running in college was one of them.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I've had an incredible experience and opportunity being able to run Varsity for 5 years. I wouldn't change thing. I have even more passion for the sport today than I did when I started and met so many people through running, it's been worth it!
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
There's always obstacles. Injuries, illnesses and times when you aren't at your best. Despite the best training plans and coaching, as runners, we sometimes get hurt. Learning to be patient and heal is difficult, but important. I experienced that at the beginning of this XC season with an achilles injury. Coming back mentally after that was challenging. Wanting to push harder but knowing its not time yet and trusting you WILL heal is hard, but worth it. Every race is not just a physical test, but a mental one.
What will you miss the most?
Sunday runs. For the last 5 years I have ran every Sunday with runners from all over the area. Whether a regular season Sunday or a college holiday, we meet and we run.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Never give up. You will have bad races, injuries, and times that overwhelm you, but don't give up. Stay focused and believe in your fitness. Stay healthy! Eat well and sleep well - take care of your body. Stay mentally strong and don't waste energy on stress. Believe in yourself! If you put in the work, trust it, you'll get there. Finally, have fun and enjoy every single mile along the way.
What are your post-high school or college plans?
Committed to the University of Kentucky TF/XC for Fall 2018
Who would you like to say thank you to?
First my family, and then to all my coaches; Chi Swain, Coach Smith, Coach Beaumont, Coach Sinclair, and the Holman's. My sister (Taylor), Cooper, Angie S., my teammates, friends, teachers, and the AD, Coach Kelsey. Thanks also to all the coaches and runners throughout Louisville and KY who have encouraged and supported me through the years. We have an awesome community of runners here and whether team-mate or competitor, thank you. I can't wait to run for UK, and I wish the best for all KY runners today and tomorrow.
