Senior Hero: Christian Leach, Starkville High

Name: Christian Leach

School: Starkville High School

Q: What does your training look like right now given the current situation?

A: Since the normal track season isn't going to happen, and also being out of shape from being injured and spring break in another country, I'm doing low, easy mileage as I would the start of summer training for XC.

Q: What are you doing to stay busy other than run right now?

A: It varies from day to day, but for the most part, schoolwork, Minecraft, sleep, and watching past Olympic/NCAA races.

Q: What was your most memorable race/moment?

A: Cross Country State Meet this year. I placed third after an amazing senior year with the team.

Q: What was the funniest thing that happened during your running career?

A: I do have a lot of inside jokes that would take a while to explain, but when Kate Mattox gets mad, it's the funniest thing ever.

Q: Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?

A: There are quite a bit of other athletes that are faster than me, so I can't say any one particular athlete, but I'd say I compete against my past-self every race, trying to become faster with a better pr or more race experience.

Q: What was your greatest accomplishment?

A: Placing 3rd at the 6A Cross Country State Meet

Q: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

A: (Besides having a final senior season of Track) I probably would have quit soccer, but I would have definitely would have put in more hard work 8th-10th grade year. I look back and could yell at myself for not putting in the extra work.

Q: What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

A: I got kicked off the XC team my 9th-grade year because of some stupid stuff lol it wasn't my fault. I didn't do track 9th grade and almost quit the sport because of the coach. But for my 10th-grade year, we got a new XC coach and it helped feel like a new start. Despite what I said, I really am thankful and enjoyed all the coaches I've had. They've all helped me become the person I am today.

Q: What will you miss the most?

A: The friendships that I've made with my teammates

Q: What advice would you give to younger athletes?

A: Start putting in the work as early as you can. All the summer and weekend runs on your own are really important. It might suck at the moment, but it pays off in the end. Also, get Strava because it's great accountability for yourself to keep consistent mileage.

Q: What kind of an impact has your coach had on you and your team?

A: I've had three coaching changes throughout my running career. Each has brought their own style to the team. But Coach Meggan really helped me in the process of becoming the top-level runner that I hope to be. Her experience and guidance have helped me learn to love the sport.

Q: What are your college plans?

A: I plan to attend Mississippi College and major in Biology pre-med.

Q: Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?

A: I'd have to give thanks to God for giving me the ability to run and be on the team.

Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

A: Running and being on the xc/track team has made my high school life amazing. I'm really sad that it's coming to an end, especially the way it's ending.

Q: Favorite Meal?

A: Pasta or anything with bread.

Q: If you could be any animal what would you choose? and why?

A: Jellyfish. They don't think and worry about stuff. I'd love to chill in the ocean and do nothing.

Q: Your favorite superhero?

A: Jesus!!!