Cory Leu might be busy running sprints on the Springer Cardinal hardwood right now, but that doesn’t stop him from getting his steps in working on his sheep and pigs for FFA. 

“I spend anywhere from two to five hours a day on the treadmill, walking, feeding, and working them,” Leu said. “I enjoy it because I love working animals. They are my passion, and just being around them and working with them day in and day out makes everything worth it.” 

Being worth it might mean different things to different people, but Leu has some tangible proof that his methods work. 

“My most recent awards have been grand champion lamb at my county meet,” he said. “In our county fair, I got 34 and 35 overall cross at OYE. I also had reverse grand wether and grand ewe at Spaginaw, Texas.” 

Leu said joining FFA was beneficial for him because it has led him to people who have had a huge impact in his life, and he added that if someone was on the fence about joining up, they should take the leap. 

“It’s a lot of work, but in the end it’s worth it,” he said. “You get to meet a lot of different people who can help you in all areas of your life. They can become your best friends, and they’ll always be there for you down the road. 

“Our goal is to go to county and win our sheep show this year,” he added. “We have lots of competition, and it’s a big deal to win, especially since this is my last year. I have never made sale up at OYE, and that’s always been a dream of mine. My family and I are working hard to make that come true, and I believe I have the animals to do that this year.” 

In his free time, Leu said he likes to hang out with his friends, play video games, spend time on the basketball court, fish, and watch movies.