Ricky Figueroa, Running Coach

Sean Shahmirzadi, Athletic Trainer Strength & Conditioning Coach

Leiana Armendariz, RRCA Certified Running Coach

Ricky is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and passion in running. From a novice with no prior experience in 2020, Ricky has quickly ascended to become a sub-elite runner, boasting a remarkable 1:06 half marathon time and multiple victories. As a coach at the Long Beach Running Club, Ricky’s journey inspires athletes of all levels, showcasing the potential for rapid growth and achievement. Currently training for an Olympic Trials Qualifying time, Ricky’s journey embodies the ethos of hard work.

Leiana, a native of San Diego, California, is a certified running coach who has always had a passion for running. She loves hearing about others' running goals and supporting them throughout their journey. After taking a break from running for four months after having her daughter, Leiana realized how much the sport meant to her beyond her own personal goals. This realization led her to become a certified running coach, so she could help others in their own running journeys. Leiana believes that with the right amount of time, patience, effort, trust, and most importantly, heart, anyone can find success in running. She is genuinely excited to help runners of all abilities cross the finish line, feeling accomplished and eager for more.

Sean, originally from Los Angeles, California is an Athletic Trainer and strength coach with experience in professional soccer, collegiate soccer, and with the US Youth National Teams. Sean was awarded Athletic Trainer of the year in 2020 for Excellence in Patient Care and Evidence-Based Practice. Sean specializes in return to play programming, end-stage ACL rehab and strength & conditioning.

MEET OUR TEAM

Here's what our runners have to say

"Leiana will help you cross the finish line!! I started working with her 16 weeks before my first marathon. Having a solid running base, I needed support in creating a plan that would build my mileage and speed - and she did just that! She was a wealth of knowledge for training do's and don'ts, nutritional musts, and so much more. She worked with me while I was traveling to ensure I could enjoy my time while chipping away at my plan. I faced a foot injury 4 weeks before race day and she was extremely helpful in ensuring I got the right amount of low impact cardio in to continue my training while allowing my foot to heal. I highly recommend her services to anyone interested in the pursuit, but unsure where to start!"

- Angela

”My first conversation with Leiana was about running, and it was abundantly clear how passionate Leiana is for running and accomplishing her goals. What surprised me was how supportive she was of my personal running goals too! New to California and trying to find my community, Leiana introduced me to LBRC, which I’m eternally grateful for, because I’ve been running with the club ever since. I’ve never had much of a plan with regards to my running, but I’ve always had the ambition and discipline to excel in running. When Leiana approached me about being my coach, I didn’t hesitate to accept. We hit the ground running with my training plan, personalizing it, accommodating for my busy schedule. She made I had my runs planned out several weeks in advance and always set time aside to meet with me if I had any questions or concerns. I was especially impressed with Leiana’s level of commitment/professionalism as a coach, while raising a newborn, and working full-time-big kudos! I was happy with the coaching I received from Leiana and would recommend her to anyone”

-Frank