Fisher’s Files: Family fuels Quaker Valley freshman runner

By: Ray Fisher
Sunday, November 3, 2024 | 11:01 AM

Quaker Valley freshman Lucy Montagnese was a top 10 finisher in Class 2A at the WPIAL girls cross country championships.

But it was a small army of supporters that helped inspire the 14-year-old Montagnese to her memorable individual performance.

“I could not have run how I did at WPIALs without the constant support I get from my family, my team and my coaches,” she said. “Running is a big part of my life and my family’s life and it has helped us grow closer as a family.”

Lucy’s older sister, Cecilia, crossed the finish line in first place to claim the WPIAL championship. Lucy placed sixth in her first appearance at the WPIAL meet.

Cecilia, 17, Lucy and their brother Jonah, 15, all qualified for the event.

Jonah corralled third place in Class 2A in the boys championships.

“It meant so much to me to be able to run at WPIALs with my sister Cecilia and my brother Jonah, and of course my parents cheering us all on,” said Montagnese, the freshman. “With Cecilia being a senior, this is the only cross country season where me, my sister and my brother will be on the same team.

“It was very special to share this season with them, especially with the way we support each other, and I am so grateful to have a strong bond with them.”

How much is running a family affair for the Montagneses?

The parents, Jesse and Jessica, along with the fourth sibling in the family, 9-year-old Sam, attend the QV races whenever possible — which is fairly regularly.

“My dad is always running all around each course to yell out my splits and what place I’m in while I race,” Lucy said, “and my mom and Sam always come to watch, too. They are so supportive and encouraging.”

Jesse is head coach of the QV middle school cross country program. He also is the middle school’s track and field distance coach.

Tags: Quaker Valley