In our RT Snap Q&A series, we’ve had the privilege of interviewing some of the world’s best runners, delving into their extraordinary journeys, celebrating their achievements, and exploring the unwavering dedication that defines their careers.
Leonard Korir
- Full Name: Leonard Essau Korir
- Date of Birth: December 10, 1986
- Nationality: Kenyan-born American
- Specialty: Long-distance running (5,000 meters to marathon)
- Won the NCAA Division I Cross Country Championship in 2011.
- Won the NCAA Division I Indoor Track and Field Championship 5,000 meters in 2011.
- Placed 2nd in the 2017 New Orleans Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon.
- Second place in the U.S. 20K Championships in 2017.
- Won the U.S. 15K Championships in 2018.
- Finished 3rd at the US Olympic Marathon Trials on February 3, 2024
Notable Personal Bests:
- 10,000 meters: 27:20.18 (achieved in 2019)
- Half Marathon: 1:00:12 (achieved in 2019)
- Marathon: 2:07:56 (achieved in 2021)
RT: Have you ever had to deal with injuries during your career, and how did you manage to bounce back stronger?
Leonard: Yes. I have dealt with hamstring issues. I managed to bounce back by doing more strength work because my hamstrings were weak. Did more physio with the doctors and did more warmup drills before workouts to help reduce injuries.
RT: Reflecting on your career, which race or achievement stands out as the most memorable for you and why?
Leonard: Memorable races are Olympic trials races where I managed to make the team. It’s not easy and when you make the national team. It’s a very important achievement.
RT: Can you describe your typical training week leading up to a major race like a half marathon or a 10,000-meter event?
Leonard: More doing short interval speed work. Doing less mileage and doing a lot of recovery work. Massage and lots of rest.
RT: What role does your coach play in your training and development as an athlete?
Leonard: Plays a crucial role. He designs workouts that fit to the upcoming race.
RT: You’re known for your strong finishes in races. Could you share some insights into your race strategy and how you maintain your competitive edge?
Leonard: Usually practice doing fast workouts during training sessions like 200s on track helps a lot to run fast when tired.
RT: What advice would you give to young athletes aspiring to reach the level of success you have achieved in running?
Leonard: Good advice is to always have good plans and goals at the beginning of the year. Always have a good training group and learn to do all races in season like cross country, indoors then outdoor track. Always try to balance all these races to help you grow as an athlete.
