Molly Mocko Runs The US#2 All-Time Middle School 3200m

Carson Vittorio
Mar 2
2 min read

This past Sunday at the Plainfield Pack March Madness Invite, 8th grader Molly Mocko delivered an impressive performance in the 3200m, finishing with a time of 10:24.85. Competing against some of the best male runners from middle schools across the state, Molly’s effort stood out as she finished 3rd overall.

From the start, Molly positioned herself near the front of the pack and maintained a strong rhythmthroughout the first mile. She continued to increase the effort throughout the final 8 laps as she crossed the finish line with a time of 10:24.85, she achieved a massive personal best. For perspective, Mocko ran 11:13 this cross country season for 2 Miles.

Molly’s performance at Lewis is a clear reflection of her hard work this season. Her training, determination, and focus have all contributed to this standout result, and many expect her to continue improving as the season progresses. For an 8th grader, breaking 10:30 is an impressive milestone and points toward a bright future in distance running.

She ran this just a week after beating 2025 3A 1600m State Champion Annika Swan at The Circuit Chicago. She ran 4:55.58 for the full Mile to win that race. She has shown that she can already tangle it up with the states best.

This is also believed to be the US#2 All-Time for Middle Schoolers in the 3200m. Sophia Rodriguez holds the National Record at 10:17.43 from 2023!

Family, friends, and teammates celebrated her effort after the race, proud not only of the time on the clock but of the grit she demonstrated. The Plainfield Pack March Madness Invite provided a great stage for talented young athletes, and Molly Mocko certainly made her mark.

Her Splits:

1:18.82

1:17.52

1:19.54

1:20.53

1:17.94

1:18.31

1:18.75

1:12.44

2:37.34

2:40.07

2:36.25