Jun 03, 2021

Leah Futey

The competitive bright young runner from Sue Cleveland, Leah Futey is has been lighting up the track this spring. Leah has even taken to the national spotlight with good performances at Adidas Indoor Nationals and a collection of New Mexico State Championship medals. Today we get to know more about her in our New Mexico's Getting To Know Series.

When did you first start competing in track and field, and do you recall any of your childhood competitions?

5 years old, yes I ran usatf local, regional, and national meets for many years.

Was there a certain moment when you realized you'd be able to compete at such a high level?

probably 6 or 7 years old.

What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?

lots of struggles with injury but especially this season, it's been difficult to realize that state is only one day this year and I've already qualified in 4 events, however, I will probably only be able to run 2.

How did COVID impact your training as you prepared for the season?

it was hard having the xc season pushed back, then only having a 3 week season, then directly into a track season. it's also been very hard racing in a mask.

If you had to pick: Track and Field or Cross Country, and why?

it's hard picking one or the other, I like the atmosphere of xc better, it feels more like a family. however, I like the track races and training better.

How is the college recruiting process going, and what schools are you looking at?

I am still too young to talk to coaches, however, I am very excited to start emailing with coaches and hopefully get some interest.

Is there another track event you wish you were good at? What is appealing about it?

I ran my first 400 in a meet a couple of weeks ago snd I hadn't run a 400 in several years and it was really fun. I wouldn't say I was bad at it but I hadn't run in many years, I ran close to a 63.

What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of running?

I snowboard in the winter.

Who is your role model, and why?

Colleen Quigley and Emma Coburn.

Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of the things on your list!

I wanna go skydiving.

What is the best advice you have received?

if you beat everyone else, you'll win.

What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?

I eat the same dinner the night before every meet.

If you could do a sport other than XC/Track, what sport would it be, and why?

volleyball.