Dust fills the air as runners stampede past the crowd at the Garmin RunningLane Cross Country Championships in Huntsville, Alabama. Leading the group is Shravan Pradeep (‘25), the varsity cross country captain whose record-breaking performances, national recognition, and unwavering leadership have solidified his place as one of South’s most remarkable athletes.
Pradeep has been a dedicated cross country team member since his freshman year. As a captain of the varsity cross country team this past fall. He broke multiple school records, finished 12th at the NJSIAA Meet of Champs, and placed 40th out of 300 runners at the Garmin National XC Championship. Because of his many accomplishments, Pradeep was named CVC Runner of the Year.
This success, however, did not begin overnight. Pradeep has been doing cross country since sixth grade and has dedicated himself to improving and achieving success. “I always knew I loved running as a kid, so naturally I liked to compete in it too,” said Pradeep.
The key to Shravan’s progress lies in his work ethic and attitude towards the sport. “I’m extremely consistent in my training and I’ll go to extreme lengths to run the proper amount each day, whether I’m on vacation or have a lot going on at the time,” said Pradeep.
His discipline and passion for running do not go unnoticed by those around him. “I never truly realized how strong his mental toughness was during meets until this year,” said teammate Kushagra Sadwal (‘25). “I thought he was just super fit, but I realized that he was putting more into the race than anyone on the team.”
Whether it’s waking up early to fit in a run before school or pushing through long practice sessions, his attitude is consistent. His efforts have not only helped him reach new personal bests but have also inspired those around him to elevate their own performance.
“There was a moment early in the season when the freshmen were deciding on a workout and literally asked, ‘What would Shravan do?’,” said Coach Reilly, varsity cross country coach.
This past season, Pradeep has truly been a role model. “He organized summer workouts, created a training schedule, and he always makes himself available for questions to younger athletes,” said Coach Reilly.
As Pradeep concluded his final season of high school cross country, he now looks to carry his successes into his future aspirations. “I hope to run in college whether on a school team or a club, because I think running is the most fun when it’s social. But regardless of where I end up, running will be a key part of my life and I’d love to compete for fun even when I grow older,” said Pradeep.
Pradeep has been a pillar for the cross country team this season and will remain an inspiration for the next generation of South runners.
