Leah redefines determination and grit by bringing a positive attitude and always remembering to have fun. Since 2007 she has had great mentors and support, especially her friend Britany who she trained with to finish her first half marathon. She has been fortunate enough to not have any serious injuries (knock-on-wood that continues) in her successful running/triathlon career.
With experience on her side, she has learned a pre-race routine that works for her and loves the positive atmosphere from all the athletes on race day. Back when Leah first started her running/triathlon career, something she wished she knew was to watch what you eat the night before.
Not many people can say they have run half marathon, a 10k, a 5k and 100 meter dash all within the same day. But Leah is tough and committed to finishing every goal that she puts in front of her.
Current running shoes: Brooks Transcend
Current watch you are wearing: Fitbit Versa 2
Most memorable race: My first half marathon. I did the Chicago Half Marathon with my friend Britany. We trained and did the race together. It was an amazing goal and achievement.
Years doing running/triathlon races: Since 2007, my first race was a 5k in college
Favorite meal the night before a race: Romaine Caesar Salad + Steak
Advice you wish you had when you first started: Watch what you eat the night before a race. I have learned this the hard way. Honestly, I had a lot of great mentors and they all helped me ease into running & triathlons.
Favorite running mantra: This is “Runderful”. When I am challenging my body/ mental strength, I remind myself that one day I might not be able to do this due to injury or illness.
What is your favorite PR?: None! I have always done races for fun. I am thinking of training to get my Half Marathon under 2:15. This would be the first time that I’m training for a PR.
Are you more of a winter runner or summer runner?: In FL, that’s hard to say. I’d say Winter. In FL, that means NO humidity. Up north, in Iowa, I had a group that I ran with year round. We always enjoyed our Winter runs.
Have you ever been injured from running/triathlon?: No! I’ve been fortunate. I am anxious about falling off my bike during a triathlon when getting in and out of my clips.
Do you have a pre-race routine?: I prep my gear the night before. Race Day, I wake up & drink 2-4 shots of espresso! Run a mile for a warmup. I love race days because of the positivity that comes from all of the athletes.
What is the farthest you have ever run at one time?: 22 miles! I did a Super Yetti Challenge in MN on New Years Day (I can’t remember the year). It was a half marathon, 10k, 5k and 100 meter dash.