East Meadow High School senior Leslie Villafuerte-Castro was the first female East Meadow cross-country champion in 16 years. She is also the first female East Meadow runner to compete in the New York State Federation Championship in 20 years.

Her time of 19:34.0 at Bethpage State Park is the fifth fastest in school history, and second fastest since the course was revamped several years ago. Her Eisenhower best-time of 19:18.1 is the current school record for the course.

“Leslie has provided a stellar example of sportsmanship, leadership and determination for our program,” coach Michael Ringhauser said. “She has dedicated herself to tirelessly chasing her dreams and has shown how far an optimistic outlook and inspired work ethic can take someone. She is the foundation of our program."

Villafuerte-Castro has served as East Meadow’s team captain for the past two years. During last year's outdoor track and field season, she was the Sectional Champion in the 2000 Steeple Chase and earned All-County accolades in three events (1500, Steeple Chase, 4x800).

Villafuerte-Castro was also awarded the Sectional Sportsmanship Award by a committee of Section 8 coaches which was awarded at the State Championships.