Taylor had been involved in gymnastics and triathlons before her accident. Two months post-accident, a recreation therapist introduced her to Para sports. She met Canadian wheelchair racer Colin Mathieson, who encouraged her to try a racing chair. This experience reignited her passion for sports.

"There's so many things that I couldn't do when I got injured that I really loved before," Taylor said. "Triathlon really felt like it was one of those things that was right in the grey area of, 'Could I do it? Could I not do it?'"

Training Regimen

Taylor trains between 10 and 20 hours a week under the guidance of coaches Carolyn Murray and Norman Carriere. Murray provides her with cycling and running programmes, while Carriere oversees her swim training. Taylor treats sport like a science experiment, focusing on data-driven results.

"For the most part, I have treated sport like a science experiment," she explained. "The data says if you do this, this might happen and if you do it this way, you're going to be faster."

Memorable Achievements

One of Taylor's most memorable moments came when she won the PTWC event at the 2024 Americas Championships in Miami. "It was my first career win, and I realised I was gonna make the [2024 Paralympic] team from that result," she said.

Ambitions and Future Plans

Taylor aims to win a gold medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris and compete at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. Her dedication to training and data-driven approach positions her well for these goals.

Personal Philosophy and Rituals

Taylor believes triathlon pushes athletes to extremes they didn't know they could achieve. Before each race, she takes a moment to appreciate her journey and the skills she has developed.

"When I approach a start line, I take a minute to tell myself that I've been brave and worked hard," she said. "I take a minute to appreciate the skills I've developed."

Professional Life

In addition to her athletic career, Taylor works as a compliance officer at a pharmaceutical company in Winnipeg. Balancing work and training is challenging but fulfilling for her.

"It's a balancing act to squeeze in two workouts a day with my work obligations," Taylor noted. "Training can be a great way to blow off steam and re-focus."

Community Involvement

Taylor is also active in her community. She serves on the board of directors for the Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association. Her involvement highlights her commitment to promoting sports within the community.

Influences and Heroes

Taylor cites Canadian rower Silken Laumann as her hero and credits her coaches as significant influences in her life.

Leanne Taylor's journey from Newcastle-under-Lyme to becoming a prominent figure in Para triathlon is inspiring. Her dedication, data-driven approach, and community involvement make her a role model for aspiring athletes.