"When you promise something, you must fulfill it." — Haile Gebrselassie

You know the marathon in my country is just exceptional. It's like soccer in England. If England win the world cup and Ethiopia win the marathon - it's the same.

He was not a runner, my father, but he was quick. I always remember it was very difficult to escape from him when he was angry. If he wanted to beat us he would always catch us. Even me, he could always catch me.

The more you are getting older, you lose a little something. Of course there is another advantage, because of your long experience you can use it.

My school was six miles away from where I lived on the farm. I had to walk and run, there and back every day, through gorges and over rivers. If I was late, there was a very big stick waiting for me.

Always, if you win mentally, you can win physically as well.

This is what I wanted. They tell me that London is the best field in history. I wanted to be part of that. Because everyone will be there it will be a wonderful challenge for me. You can see the best runners, how they look, how they run. For me to beat the best is what counts.

Once you have commitment, you need the discipline and hard work to get you there.

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When you promise something, you must fulfill it.