Leah O’Connor is a 2020 Team USA 3k Steeplechase Olympic hopeful with a lot of talent, but even more inspiring, relentless perseverance. She has had to overcome many barriers (both literally and figuratively) to get back to the track to feeling powerful again.

On this A to Z Podcast, Leah generously shares how she has processed pain and how she keeps her vision.

The World of Running

John Cody Risch won the USATF Indoor Track and Field 5k Racewalk Championships in New York.

Steve Spence ends his 43-year sub-5 mile streak.

Jacob Kiplimo’s too-early celebration cost him the race.

Guest Background

Leah O’Connor

• 5th fastest 3000 Meter Steeplechase time by an American Woman,
  9:18.85
• 4th place finish at the 2015 USA Track and Field Championships in the 3000 Meter Steeplechase.
• Collegiate 3000 Meter Steeplechase – 9:36.43 – Michigan State University Record
• Collegiate 1500- 4:11.04- Michigan State University Record
• Collegiate Mile- 4:27.18 – Michigan State University Record and NCAA Championship Record
• 2014 NCAA D1 Outdoor Track and Field Champion in the 3000 Meter Steeplechase
• 2015 NCAA D1 Indoor Track and Field Champion in the Mile

Current Training Status: Leah O’Connor trains professionally with Gazelle Elite Racing in West Michigan. She plans to get back out on the track with a legitimate shot at making Team USA.

Feeling Powerful Again

Leah shares her story, her process through pain, her driving passion, and her vision for feeling powerful again.

Not only is Leah a gifted athlete, but she is also a gifted writer. As mention, and as promised, here is her article Hey, Struggling Runner—.

You can follow Leah here. Or find her as @leah_oconnor on Instagram.

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We will keep up with Leah’s season as it unfolds. Subscribe to our blog to get the inside scoop!