Running News Daily

Zariel Macchia: Rising Star in Distance Running and Academics

Zariel "Z" Macchia, an 18-year-old senior at William Floyd High School in Suffolk County, New York, continues to make headlines as a standout talent in American distance running. Her achievements both on and off the track demonstrate her exceptional dedication and potential.

Macchia recently defended her title at the USATF U20 Cross Country Championships in Lubbock, Texas, completing the 6-kilometer course in 21:46 and winning by an impressive 11-second margin. This marked her second consecutive U20 national cross-country title, solidifying her reputation as one of the top young runners in the country. In recognition of this victory, she was named USATF Athlete of the Week.

Beyond athletics, Zariel excels academically and was named the News 12/Bethpage Federal Credit Union Scholar Athlete of the Week. This prestigious accolade, awarded to only 30 student-athletes across Long Island during the 2024-25 school year, included a $1,000 scholarship.

Macchia has also achieved numerous other milestones, including representing Team USA's U20 squad internationally, earning five All-American honors, and securing multiple state championships. She has twice been named Gatorade's New York Girls Cross-Country Player of the Year.

A well-rounded individual, Zariel maintains an A average, serves as captain of her school's science bowl team, and has contributed to her community by establishing an ecological center and tutoring peers. She is committed to balancing her academic and athletic pursuits as she prepares to run cross-country and track at Brigham Young University while pursuing a degree in electrical engineering.

Zariel Macchia'd dedication, work ethic, and remarkable achievements make her a rising star in the world of distance running and a role model for aspiring athletes.