Masciarelli makes most of first opportunity in event with 6:25.35 effort for No. 4 in U.S. history, taking down 2019 prep and American Under-20 all-time marks held by future North Carolina teammate Trainor at New York State Showcase

By Erik Boal, DyeStat Editor

Sydney Masciarelli made her first career 2,000-meter steeplechase a memorable one Saturday at the New York State Showcase, setting the national high school record by running 6 minutes, 25.35 seconds at Rondout Valley Athletic Complex in Accord, N.Y.

“I’ve been wanting to do the steeplechase for a couple years now,” Masciarelli said. “My background with basketball has made me eager to try the steeplechase for years. It’s always looked fun to me and keeps running around in circles more interesting. I’m happy I finally got the chance to do it.” 

Masciarelli, a resident of Northbridge, Mass., and recent graduate of Marianapolis Prep in Connecticut, eclipsed the 2019 prep mark of 6:29.08 achieved by future North Carolina teammate Sarah Trainor of Franklin D. Roosevelt High in New York.

Kate Putman, a sophomore at Cicero-North Syracuse, placed second in 7:04.34.

The record-setting effort came one day following Masciarelli’s 18th birthday and also achieved the all-time American Under-20 performance, in addition to ranking 15th in the world this year.

Masciarelli also elevated to the No. 4 competitor in U.S. history. Stephanie Garcia, a New Balance professional, still holds the American 2,000-meter steeplechase record at 6:14.66 from the 2014 Greenville South Carolina Open Classic.

Masciarelli, a two-time Foot Locker Cross Country All-American and 2018 national champion, also produced a nation-leading 10:04.54 2-mile performance June 5 at a USATF New England Mini Meet at Gordon College in Wenham, Mass.

“I think it was the perfect way to end my high school career,” Masciarelli said. “Missing out on my junior season taught me to make the most of every opportunity to race and have fun, and I’ve been working really hard over the last year and it’s very rewarding to see it all pay off.”

– Mary Albl contributed to this story