Senior Kayla McCann plans to run in the 2020 Boston Marathon this coming spring.

The first-timer marathoner is currently fundraising for the Brad Canty Underdog Scholarship foundation. Canty was a member of the class of ‘18 and passed away before graduating.

“Brad inspires me to keep running,” McCann said.

As Kayla noted, the Canty Scholarship fund recognizes the unrecognized and deserving students at the school. Despite not having the same spotlight, these kids can get the help they need towards college.

McCann also attributes much of her inspiration to her cross country coach, Jean Cann.

“She’s been there five out of the six years I’ve been running, so she was always so supportive.”

Reflecting on the big date, Kayla noted she is most excited to see the crowds and to finish. As for the hours leading up, she’s not looking forward to the pre-race nerves.

McCann’s longest run so far was back in early December. In one day, she completed 16.2 miles.

Now with the swim season over, Kayla is increasing her mileage. On a tight schedule, she’ll often squeeze in up to 5 miles before school.

McCann addressed her past Saturday before volunteering at Girls Sectionals for swimming.

“I had to run ten miles that day so I woke up at 2:40 in the morning, started running at 3:20 and ran 10 miles basically in the dark. I had my running light, I had reflection gear, but didn’t see too many cars.”

McCann first began running in sixth grade through the program, Girls on the Run. According to McCann, the program played a large part in growing her desire to join the cross country team.

“It’s about younger girls gaining confidence through running.”

Besides leading as a captain on during the fall, McCann also just finished her final season as a captain of the Swim and Dive program.

“The cross country and swim season got my mind off work a little bit which was good. I think I enjoyed it more because I knew it was my last year on both on the teams so I tried to make the most of it while I could”

McCann hopes to attend Northeastern next fall as a part of the nursing program. She is currently deciding as well, whether or not to accept the full-ride scholarship to the school through the ROTC program.

“I think dedicating your nursing career to helping people who are actually fighting for your country and fighting for you is bigger than just working in a hospital,” said McCann.

Someday, McCann wishes to compete in an Iron Man, noting that she was attracted to the large goal.

“The longer the distance the better.”