When we think of what defines a successful athlete, a couple attributes immediately come to mind. Maybe strength? Resilience? Or, perhaps leadership? At just 18 years old, Alpharetta High School senior Lidia Lo Faro already embodies those very characteristics. Joining the Windward community eight years ago, Lidia quickly became a student to look out for. While initially starting as a soccer player, her love for running and fitness quickly brought her to cross country and track, where she truly began to blossom. When asked about role models who shaped her ambitions, Lidia notes French Triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand as an inspiration. Being the only female triathlete to win a gold medal in three competitions, Lidia finds pieces of herself reflected in Beaugrand’s work ethic and racing tactics.

It is those very lessons that Lidia carries with her to her own sporting career. She is proud to have been named to the 2025 Atlanta All-Metro Cross Country Team after placing at the GHSA 6A State Championships and winning the 6A Region 6 title by over a minute. Beyond that, Lidia cements her drive for success through serving on the Athletics Leadership Team, and has recently signed an NIL deal with the Atlanta Track Club and Adidas for the remainder of her track season.

And yet, for all her impressive individual accomplishments, Lidia stresses the integral role her team plays in her success. She explains that beyond simply competing in relays for team points, her team’s attitude and spirit before a race often determines how well they do both individually and holistically. As the captain of AHS’s Cross Country and Track Team, Lidia strives to set a good example for the rest of her team – especially the younger ones. She often guides the other girls on fueling practices, ensuring they feel their best when running. As for team spirit, she encourages team bonding activities outside of practice, creating a safe space for her team and ensuring the continuation of time-honored pre-race traditions.

Yet, Lidia explains that the path to her successes was not without its bumps. After cross country, she suffered a stress fracture in her fibula. Being out from running for six weeks, Lidia explains it was hard to watch her teammates continue on without her. Lidia worried the injury would set her back in an irreparable way. However, in hindsight, that experience, while challenging, taught her to appreciate the opportunity of running more than ever before. Now, she is grateful for that journey and the growth it provided.

When asked for parting advice to younger athletes, Lidia urges others to simply have fun with it! “Truly, the most valuable improvements happen when you are focused on having fun with your teammates and enjoying the sport,” she says. “Don't take one bad race or practice too seriously!” And while we may not all be star-studded athletes like Lidia, I’m sure we can all internalize her words to run just a little bit farther wherever life may take us.