For most high school runners, competing at the state level is a dream.
For rising Knoxville Catholic High School senior Cade Duncanson, that dream stretched far beyond Tennessee this summer—all the way to Gagliano del Capo, Italy—where he proudly represented Team USA at the U18 Mountain Running Cup.
Selected by USA Track & Field to compete against the world’s top young mountain runners, Cade traded familiar Tennessee trails for rugged Italian mountains, steep climbs, rocky terrain, and the unforgettable experience of wearing the red, white, and blue.
“It was exciting to feel like I was running for something more than myself or my team,” Cade said. “I was representing my entire country.”
Chasing a Dream
Cade’s love for running began in the fourth grade, although baseball was his first passion.
Over time, running became more than a sport. It became an opportunity to challenge himself, travel to new places, meet incredible people, and accomplish goals he once thought were out of reach.
“The three main things that keep me passionate for this sport are the people, the places, and setting goals for myself and then achieving them,” he shared.
The opportunity to compete internationally came after a friend who had represented Team USA at a previous Mountain Running Cup encouraged Cade to give trail running a try.
“I’ve always liked cross country compared to competing on a track, and trail races add lots of elevation and obstacles to make it even more challenging,” Cade said. “Once I heard about the potential opportunity, it was something I really strived to achieve.”
After submitting an application that included race results, trail experience, and recommendations, Cade received the news he had been hoping for.
“Being chosen to represent the U.S. was truly an honor,” he said. “I’ve always had the goal of making a U.S. team, but I did not expect to make one this early in my career.”
Racing on One of the Toughest Courses He’s Ever Seen
Nothing could have fully prepared Cade for the course awaiting him in southern Italy.
The race measured just under 5K, but packed nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain into the climb. Runners navigated rocky stone stairs, uneven footing, narrow passages through a centuries-old stone house, and even cacti along the trail—all while racing in nearly 95-degree heat and humidity.
“It was nothing like anything I’ve ever run before,” Cade said. “I trained around here at places like Haw Ridge, but it was nothing like the challenge of the Gagliano del Capo course.”
Race day brought plenty of nerves.
“My mindset was to get out hard so I wouldn’t be boxed in,” he said. “The race was the toughest thing I have ever completed.”
Despite the grueling conditions, Cade leaned on his teammates throughout the race, pushing one another through one of the most demanding competitions of their young careers.
More Than a Race
While competing for Team USA was unforgettable, it was the friendships formed with athletes from around the world that left the biggest impression.
“The thing I’ll remember most is meeting other kids from across the world,” Cade said. “It was cool to meet teenagers that have similarities, yet they live in France, Ireland, or Wales.”
Many of the athletes had already connected through Instagram before arriving in Italy, making it easy to strike up conversations and share laughs. Cade said they traded stories about school, training, and everyday life—and even cleared up a few stereotypes.
“They thought Americans only ate McDonald’s and watched reels all day,” he laughed. “They were dying to try Crumbl Cookies, so one of our teammates brought some for them.”
His Team USA squad also formed a close bond. With teammates from Colorado and Georgia, the group quickly became friends and plans to reunite at the National High School Trail Championship in Colorado later this month.
Faith, History, and Perspective
Beyond the race itself, Italy offered experiences that extended far beyond athletics.
Cade explored the Amalfi Coast, Rome, and Lecce, while enjoying plenty of authentic pasta and pizza along the way.
But some of his most meaningful memories came through his Catholic faith.
“I was fortunate enough to complete the Vatican tour, go to Mass at St. Peter’s, and even get a glimpse of the Pope,” he said. “Getting to experience religious things like those definitely promoted my faith.”
He also visited iconic historical sites including Pompeii and the Colosseum, experiences that made classroom lessons come alive.
“My history and religion teachers helped me form a great respect for learning from the past to make the future better,” Cade reflected. “It’s hard to comprehend life 2,000 years ago, and seeing it in person was something I’ll never forget.”
Prepared by Irish Nation
As Cade reflected on everything that led him to Italy, he credits Knoxville Catholic for helping shape him into both the athlete and person he has become.
“I feel like every teacher, coach, administrator, and counselor has inspired me to be the best person I can be and be very well-rounded,” he said. “Knoxville Catholic is so supportive with helping students achieve dreams while balancing academics.”
He also credits much of his athletic success to longtime cross country and track coach Sean O’Neil.
“I would have never been this accomplished if it weren’t for Coach O’Neil,” Cade said. “He is always prepared and looking ahead for my cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track seasons. He truly cares about getting every ounce of potential out of me. I can’t wait to spend one last year under his guidance.”
Hungry for More
Although simply making Team USA fulfilled a lifelong goal, Cade says the experience has only fueled his desire to return.
“One of the biggest things I learned about myself is that hard work truly pays off,” he said. “Getting up before school to do a difficult workout isn’t the most fun thing, but it really pays off when I get to experience things like this.”
He added, “I’m more hungry than ever to make another U.S. team. I didn’t run quite how I wanted, so I really want to be back on the world stage to prove myself.”
For younger students chasing big dreams, his advice is simple:
“Just go for it. I applied for this having no idea if I would get picked, but I did. I believe you can achieve any goal if you just stay consistent and keep your eyes on your goal.”
When asked to describe his entire experience in one word, Cade didn’t hesitate.
“Thankful.”
Thankful for his family. Thankful for his teammates. Thankful for his coaches. Thankful for the opportunity to represent his country.
Knoxville Catholic High School is incredibly proud of Cade for representing not only Team USA, but also Irish Nation with humility, determination, faith, and excellence. We can’t wait to cheer him on throughout his senior season and watch where his running journey takes him next.
Comments 1
What an awesome post about Cade.
Cade is such a great young man. I’ve watched his running journey over the years and I’ve said many times “I know I will see him in the Olympics one day!”