**Core Concept**
The pre-pubertal growth spurt is a period of rapid growth in height during childhood, primarily driven by the increase in growth hormone (GH) production. This growth spurt is characterized by a significant increase in the rate of growth, especially during the early years of childhood.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
During the pre-pubertal growth spurt, growth hormone stimulates the production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which in turn promotes the growth of bones and cartilage. The growth plates in the long bones of the body are responsible for this rapid growth. The growth plates are areas of cartilage at the ends of the bones that allow for bone growth and development. The growth hormone and IGF-1 pathway plays a crucial role in regulating this pre-pubertal growth spurt.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the growth spurt during puberty is more pronounced and rapid than the pre-pubertal growth spurt, making it the incorrect answer.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the growth spurt during infancy is the most rapid, but it is not the closest pre-pubertal increase in height each year.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the growth spurt during late adolescence is not the closest pre-pubertal increase in height each year.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The growth spurt during childhood is a critical period of development, and any disruptions to this process can have significant long-term effects on growth and development. It is essential for pediatricians to monitor growth patterns closely during this period to identify any potential issues early on.

**Correct Answer: C. 8-10 cm per year.**