Columbus North High School, 1999 – 2003
Leah Retrum swam at Columbus North High School, where she earned three individual state titles in the 200-yard individual medley, establishing a state record at the 2002 championships. Leah was undefeated in the 500-yard freestyle, also establishing a state record of 4:46.08, which stood for 13 years. Her sophomore year she swam the backstroke of the winning 200-yard medley relay.
Leah continued her swimming career at the University of Florida where she was a four-year All-American. She finaled for the Gators at all four NCAA championships in which she competed. Her highest finish was a third place in the 400 individual medley in 2005 with her strongest event being the 200 backstroke in which she achieved All-American status all four years. Among other achievements were earning the high point trophy at the 2005 US Open and was the 2005 Summer Nationals 200-meter backstroke champion and the gold medalist at the 2005 World University Games. She also competed at the 2004 Olympic Trials where she finished fourth in the 200 backstroke.
Leah graduated from the University of Florida with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, She continues in swimming as she coaches at her alma mater, Columbus North.