Rising Stars: Liam C.

At just 13 years old and in 7th grade, Liam has already built a reputation as one of Elevated Distance Training’s grittiest, most determined, and consistently improving runners. This season marks his fourth year with EDT, and each one has shown a new level of growth — not just in his times, but in his attitude, maturity, and love for the sport.

Liam’s steady progression tells the story of an athlete who refuses to settle. With personal bests of 2:25 in the 800m, 5:21 in the mile, 10:43 in the 3k, 15:15 in the 4k, and 19:19 in the 5k, he has proven time and again that consistency and effort lead to success. His goals this season are big but well within reach: to earn All-American honors, hit 5:10 in the mile, and next year, crack the elusive sub-5:00 barrier.

What makes Liam stand out isn’t just his speed — it’s his toughness. He has a rare ability to thrive when the course is challenging or the weather turns rough. While others may hesitate at a muddy hill or windy stretch, Liam finds another gear. He grows stronger the harder the race gets, often finishing with a burst of energy and focus that inspires those around him.

Coaches and teammates describe Liam as the kind of runner every team needs — positive, respectful, and relentlessly supportive. Whether it’s cheering for others, offering encouragement during workouts, or leading by example with his work ethic, he brings a contagious energy to every practice. His positive outlook helps create the kind of team culture that makes running for EDT so special.

When asked what he enjoys most about running, Liam doesn’t hesitate: being with his friends and pushing each other to get better. His advice to younger or new runners perfectly sums up his mindset: “Work as hard as you can and you can achieve anything.” That belief shows in every stride he takes.

Outside of running, Liam enjoys playing video games, football, and baseball — sports that help fuel his competitive spirit and balance his active lifestyle. Before race day, you’ll likely find him fueling up with spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, and salad — and celebrating afterward with a smoothie or a big protein meal. His favorite ChicknLegs designs, Pink Lightning and Pink Flamingos, perfectly match his upbeat personality and fun-loving approach to the sport.

Some of Liam’s favorite memories come from traveling and competing with his teammates at regionals, nationals, and Washburn — experiences filled with laughter, shared goals, and plenty of post-race smiles. Those moments off the course, he says, are what make the long miles and hard workouts worth it.

Liam’s journey into running started in the most natural way imaginable. As a kid, he used to run laps around the track during his brother’s soccer games just to pass the time — sometimes in snow boots and snow pants. What began as playful energy quickly revealed a deeper passion. Even then, it was clear: Liam didn’t just like to run — he was made to run.

Today, that same spark still drives him. With his grit, humility, and determination to get better every day, Liam represents exactly what it means to be part of the Elevated Distance Training family. The tougher the course, the stronger he gets — and his best races are still to come.