News Archive

Haile Gebrselassie (Ethiopia) PB – 2:06:20 in Amsterdam 2006

“The conditions in London (where he finished 9th in 2:09:05 on April 23 this year – ed note) didn’t suit me. It was raining and when the road becomes slippery it affects my running style which is to land on the forefoot. Wet conditions can give me injury problems. But I’ve not changed my training, I’ve done exactly the same training as for London and feel very good.”

“As for Sammy Korir, Sammy and I don’t see each other much away from races but I know he’s going to be strong. As for the rivalry between Ethiopians and Kenyans in general? We come from very similar cultures, our traditions are similar and we Ethiopians know how strong the Kenyans are.”

“I know that Berlin is a very fast course, that’s why I’m here! As for talk of world records, we’ll see. If the weather is warm like today, will that bother me? Well, I come from the track and I’m used to warm weather. I’m sorry for those who will be out there running longer, but it doesn’t bother me.”

“I was given a copy of his book, “A Long Walk to Freedom” by Nelson Mandela. In reading it, there were many things there that I knew about and others which I didn’t. Nelson Mandela is a symbol not only for Africa but for the entire world. Receiving this book from him was more than a present for me, to be recognized by Mandela meant so much to me, it was a great honour.”