Kenyan Boston Elite Marathoners Take on Elementary School Kids Questions April 13, 2006 John Hancock Press Release From the Adopt-a-Marathoner program at Elmwood Elementary School, Hopkinton
1) Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot, 2003 Boston Champion
Q: Robert, you currently train with world record holder Paul Tergat near Nairobi. How has your training gone in preparation for another win in Boston? A: I train with Paul Tergat and a group of runners and we work together. I have prepared as always for Boston and my training program has gone well in Kenya.
Q: What are your expectations for this year's marathon? A: Everybody hopes to win. We come here to do what we need to do and everyone wants to be a winner.
Question from Elmwood student: What is your favorite American food? A: Chicken and French fries.
2) Timothy Cherigat, 2004 Boston Champion
Q: Two-time Boston champion Moses Tanui is here this year to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of his 1996 victory. Was he a role model for you? A: Moses is an inspiration to all of us. To have him come with us from Kenya gives all of us support.
Question from Elmwood student: Do you stop to catch your breath during the marathon? A: Once you're started, you don't stop until you get to the finish line.
Question from Elmwood student: What do you eat before the marathon? A: I eat pasta and drink lots of water.
3) Moses Tanui, 1996 and 1998 Boston Champion
Question from Elmwood student: What do you think about when you run? A: I think about finishing first.
Question from Elmwood student: What other athletes do you admire? A: I admire all of the Kenyans because they are hard working.
Question from Elmwood student: Do you get nervous before a marathon? A: Of course; when you are doing anything important in your life you have to be a little nervous.
Question from Elmwood student: When do you get new shoes to run in? A: Two weeks before the marathon.
