THE RUNNING EFFECT PODCAST Built for Greatness: Marcelo Mantecon on Pressure, Records, and Chasing National Titles in High School
Jan 7, 2026
Marcelo Mantecon, a standout high school distance runner from Miami and Florida's all-time 5000m record holder, shares his incredible journey. He discusses the pressure of being a top competitor, reflecting on his mixed emotions after national races. Marcelo highlights the influence of his family and coach, revealing how early successes ignited his drive. With a mindset shift propelling his breakout junior year, he emphasizes the importance of balance, teamwork, and dreaming big while gearing up for an exciting 2026 season.
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Born Into Running And A Family Legacy
- Marcelo grew up around running: both parents ran and his dad attended his high school, Belen Jesuit.
- He remembers starting in first grade, progressing through middle school, and dreaming of the NXN podium after experiencing NXN as an eighth grader.
Coach Knows The Family — And The Program Works
- Marcelo met his coach as a baby because the coach was a close friend of his dad and former teammate.
- He runs the same program as other kids and credits that coach for getting him to this level.
Mindset Shift Fueled The Breakout
- Marcelo credits a mindset shift for his junior breakthrough more than any single workout change.
- He flipped from cautious racing to actively seeking the front and embracing the pain of lactic acid.