Fort Mill junior cross country Kaylee Rovenstine talks with MileSplit SC about the 2025 cross country, her running journey and the future.
Coach Lee Whitaker on Rovenstine: "Kaylee is one of the hardest workers I know, and her dedication to her team is second to none. She is attentive, coachable and focused. She's a joy to coach and extremely talented in cross country and in so many other aspects of her life. She challenges me as a coach in the best way."
How would you rate your season so far with a fourth place finish at Eye Opener and second at the Trojan Invitational?
I would say the season has been going very well so far. I was satisfied with my finishing position at both races and I am so excited to keep racing.
How did you get into running cross country?
I got into running cross country because my dad ran cross country when he was in high school, so he would always go on runs with me. I found that I really enjoyed it because of this and wanted to join the team.
What goals do you have for the rest of your junior cross country season?
I have a goal to run in the 17:40s this season for the 5K and help my team win a third cross country state championship.
What's your preferred race strategy? How do you adapt if it changes?
My preferred race strategy is to stay relaxed in the beginning and start to pick up the pace as the race progresses. I usually start pushing a lot with 800 meters to go. If this changes, I try to stay mentally relaxed and in control of my body.
What kind of mileage do you have now for a week and how will that change as the season nears championship meets?
Right now, I am doing about 30-35 miles a week. As the season nears championship meets, the weekly mileage decreases.
What has been your biggest challenge as a runner? Please explain. How do you look at this challenge?
My biggest challenge as a runner has been keeping my iron levels in check and getting enough sleep each night. It is something that I can control that allows me to be in the best shape for distance running.
Do you have a preferred cross country course style, and why?
I like courses with lots of different scenery that don't loop or repeat because it keeps me more engaged in the race.
How was summer training?
Summer training was consistent with a mix of long runs, workouts and strength training. I also attended a few running camps over the summer.
What is your motivation for now and the future?
My motivation is to keep trying new things in races and pushing myself to new personal bests.
What do you want to see happen in the sport in the future, and why?
I hope to see more scholarship opportunities for runners because a lot of us have more potential to grow and develop with college training.
What encouragement do you have for younger runners?
I encourage younger runners to not give up in the face of adversity. Running is going to bring a lot of obstacles and not everyday will go as planned. The important thing is to keep moving forward and not let the bad days define you.
What other hobbies do you have?
I also enjoy playing the piano, writing and traveling.
"I encourage younger runners to not give up in the face of adversity. Running is going to bring a lot of obstacles and not everyday will go as planned. The important thing is to keep moving forward and not let the bad days define you." - Kaylee Rovenstine
Do you have postseason cross country meet plans?
Yes, I may do one or two postseason meets like NXR.
Do you see coaching in your future?
Yes, I have thought about potentially being a distance coach in the future.
What would you want to say to your supporters?
I would want to say thank you for encouraging and believing in me even in the times I didn't believe in myself.
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
I would want to travel the world because I enjoy seeing and exploring new areas.
