Runner carries Diné pride to Japan

By Pamela G. Dempsey
Diné Bureau

Brandon Leslie

WINDOW ROCK — If Brandon Leslie's head is bowed in Japan, it may be more than a traditional sign of greeting and respect. It could be due to the weight of a medal hanging from his neck.

Then again, if his arm and head are held high, it's probably because he's carrying the tribal flag that Navajo Nation Vice President Frank Dayish Jr. presented the Olympic-hopeful for his upcoming race in Japan on Thursday.

"We gave him the Navajo Nation Flag with the certainty that he'll take all events he's going (to enter and) be successful," Dayish said.

Leslie, a former New Mexico State champion from Gallup High School, will be competing at the 2006 IAAF World Cross Country Championships as part of the U.S. Team in Fukuoka, Japan.

"To me, my fans, coach, uncle, and aunts ... it shows support that they're taking the time and realizing what talent I have (to succeed) and are willing to be behind me," Leslie said of his tribe.

Throughout his career, Leslie has competed nationally and landed a 10,000-meter national championship while running for Adams Sate College in Colorado.

His coach, Michael Daney, said Leslie is a role model.

"The relationship put together here between the Navajo Nation and (Leslie) ... is a catalyst to show the Navajo Nation and other Native American children that as much adversity as we go through life, we keep striving to persevere," Daney said.

Leslie was sidetracked temporarily while struggling with alcoholism, which he's now overcome.

"It should have happened earlier in my life," the 29-year-old runner said of his current successes. "But it was a lot of learning experiences."

Dayish said that he was happy to share Leslie's talents with the Navajo Nation. He said he felt that Leslie was a positive role model for tribes afflicted with methamphetamines, alcoholism, and diabetes.

"Look at Brandon, what he's doing," Dayish said.

Leslie's mother, Sharon, said it was the support of Dayish and the tribe that the family is grateful for.

"It's an emotional experience to know the Navajo Nation Vice President is behind Brandon," she said.