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Kristine Leahy is the American Ninja Warrior co-host. She's down in the trenches; on the sideline interviewing Ninjas as they either celebrate an awesome run, or recap what went wrong. As a professional sports commentator, we wanted to get to know Kristine a bit more beyond her amazing knowledge of stats.
1) What's been your favorite moment on American Ninja Warrior?
My favorite moment has to be watching both Geoff and Isaac reach the top of Mount Midoriyama while literally cheering each other on. I've covered Super Bowls, NBA Finals, you name it, but that moment-- watching two people achieve something no one else ever had-- was truly special. What made it even more touching, was how much they supported each other, even when it meant one would miss out on a million dollars.
2) What trick do you use to stay on point while interviewing Ninjas into the wee hours of the morning?
Four words: Venti. Skinny. Vanilla. Latte.
3) What's your favorite charity or cause?
Anything that supports animals in need. All animals want is to be loved and it breaks my heart to see so many without homes.
4) If you could pick one sport to be a professional player in, what sport would it be?
Basketball so my height would finally be used for something athletic.
5) What's your favorite sport-related film?
Easy. Space Jam.
6) When you're not hosting, or watching sports, what's your favorite activity?
Anything in the water (snorkeling, surfing, etc.) or relaxing with my dog Jersey.
7) What's one thing that's guaranteed to make you laugh?
Jersey. She makes me laugh at least once every day.
8) What sports legend past or present would you most want to meet?
Michael Jordan. I grew up watching him play with the Bulls, which is what made me want to become a sportscaster. I've met Scottie Pippin, Dennis Rodman, and Phil Jackson, but I still haven't met the greatest basketball player of all time... MJ.
9) What's your go-to music/musician to push through a workout?
Rap. Future, Drake, Kanye. Maybe some Nikki Minaj too.
10) How did you know Jersey was the pug for you?
I literally scoured the internet and looked all over the country for months for a pug and as soon as I saw her face (she was called "Pug B" at the time) I knew she was the dog for me. She was the runt of the litter and had a tiny little freckle on her face that made her unique. My dad picked her up in Houston while he was at a business meeting and brought her back to Chicago when I was 17 and she's been my best friend ever since. She'll be 12 in June.