Jacob Powell (2026) talks with MileSplit SC after the first two weekends of cross country for the Blythewood runner. Read his interview.
How do you look at leading South Carolina boys cross country for the weekend of Sept. 9?
While overjoyed to be leading the state (for Sept. 9), I know that there are people older and much faster than me that will outclass me the rest of the season.
How do you look at opening the season finishing second at Eye Opener?
That race really helped me get a picture of how I'm gonna be taking my races this season strategy-wise.
How and when did you get involved in running?
In eighth grade, my mom said that she did it, and so I decided to try it.
How was summer training?
Definitely always hurts, my least favorite season. My body never likes the offseason, but I got into shape.
What kind of mileage did you have this summer?
My mileage peaked in the 60s, average in the 50s, you can see it on my Strava (Jack Powell).
How will training change all season?
I can't answer that question yet, but I'd assume it'd be getting faster and shorter as I hone in on my race strategy.
What are your key races this year?
Lake Murray on Sep. 16, Starlight Run, Coaches Classic, qualifier and state championship.
What goals do you have this season?
School record is 15:31, would love to get under that.
How do you see yourself achieving them?
Training hard like I already am, and honing in on strategy.
"Get out, stick on to who's in front, kick. Pretty standard." - Jacob Powell
What motivates you?
I love running, nothing much more than that.
What do you hope the team will achieve this season?
Blythewood is getting way better than they ever have been, and I think we can do big things like we never have before this year.
What do you think of South Carolina cross country as a whole?
One of the best states in the United States, although the depth isn't amazing past 15:59 and 4:29 in track.
What is your kind of race strategy?
Get out, stick on to who's in front, kick. Pretty standard.
How do you adapt if it changes?
Usually if the race ends up with me in the lead I try to pace myself by miles or .25 miles to keep on pace.
What are your plans after high school?
I would love to go to a division I school and get a degree in something that interests me, although I don't know what yet.
Do you see yourself coaching in the future?
I definitely could see myself doing it on the side of something else, since running is a big passion of mine.
What other hobbies do you have?
I love choir and singing. I go to any all-state, regional, or district clinic that I can. My passion for singing and writing music is just as much of that of running.
Anything else interesting?
Not much, those two things and school take most of my time away.
If you could meet one person who would it be and why?
I'd need to meet Jakob Ingebrigtsen, since he runs my events and could tell me so much about how to go about training and everything.
Do you have any other family members that run?
My mom used to run at some private school and at GSSM.
What would you like to say to those that support you?
I thank you from the bottom of my heart. This hasn't been easy, and it won't ever be. Your support has gotten me where I am today, and hopefully will take me to new heights in the future.
Do you prefer track or cross country more? Why?
I feel like track is more fair, but I like longer distances more, so cross country wins.
Favorite course in S.C.? Why?
Newberry, since it has everything that an XC course should have, and is a great course to set a PR at.
What else would you like to do in life if you had the chance?
Traveling is definitely a big goal I have later in life, but I'm not sure about what else yet. I'm only 15.
