ALEXANDRIA, Ky. — For someone so young, 7th grader Grant Holbrook has the dedication, kindness and motivation of someone far beyond his years.

A second generation runner at Campbell County Middle School, Grant has always had the love and support of his family during his athletic and academic journeys. In addition to being ranked the #2 high school runner as a 7th grader, he was also awarded the Northern Kentucky All-Region honorable mention, all while maintaining straight A’s in school.

His father Jacob Holbrook said it’s not common for 7th grade athlete to be pulled up to compete with high school runners, but then again running and sports are in Grant’s blood.

“His mother Kelly was always a gifted runner, and I was a wrestler. I got in shape for wrestling season through cross country and that’s how we met. We were high school sweethearts,” Jacob said.

In fact, Kelly was also coached under Campbell County High School Cross Country coach Toni McKee. Memories that have been great to relive through her two children who are now on the team.

“I love it! I was a runner all through school myself, so the high school coach, I ran with all throughout school. So it’s neat to have her coaching my kids now. It’s a good influence. It’s fun to watch them do so well, and I also have a love for the sport myself.”

Grant says he’s also inspired by his middle school coach Cody Strouse, who is also a Campbell County High School alum (class of 2009).

“He makes me start behind everyone else and makes me work harder to get me better,” Cody said. One of Grant’s pre-meet rituals is to pray with his team, asking his ancestors and relatives who have passed to bless him.

“Running is one of those things that’s mental, especially cross country,” Jacob said “Your body is yelling at you to slow down and stop because it hurts, and you have to fight through that pain.”

Jacob also spoke about what great character Grant has as well. In elementary school, Grant was the leader of the anti-bullying club. He’s also known for going out of his way to perform acts of kindness for his family members and friends.

“It’s the spirit of Grant that makes him an incredible teammate. Everybody always roots him on, he’s very coachable for the same reasons,” his father Jacob said.

When he’s not running or training, Grant is playing basketball, baseball or just running around with his friends. He also watches a lot of marathon runners on YouTube and keeps track details like mile splits or even the shoes these runners wear. Right now, the 12-year-old is hoping to attend University of Kentucky and eventually pursue a career as a professional athlete or maybe even a sports scientist.

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