I know what I want when I start a marathon: to win! But what do you want? Make sure you're clear in advance and don't go out too fast.
Haile GebrselassieRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Haile Gebrselassie emphasizes the significance of marathon running in Ethiopia, equating it to the passion and pride surrounding soccer in England.
This quote highlights the cultural importance of marathon running in Ethiopia, suggesting that the nation's pride in its marathon achievements is on par with how England feels about soccer victories. Gebrselassieβs statement reflects the deep-rooted connection between national identity and sports, indicating that, for Ethiopians, winning a marathon can evoke feelings of joy and national pride akin to winning the World Cup in soccer.
Themes
MarathonEthiopiaSoccerPrideCultural SignificanceSports
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech at a sports event, one could say, 'Remember, the joy of winning a marathon is as profound as that of winning the World Cup.'
More from Haile Gebrselassie
All quotes βYou must do as your people do. If my people are poor, I must be poor. People ask me, 'Why don't you find a personal coach or a private car?' I can't. Then I won't be part of my people.
Haile GebrselassieRead
I will always listen to my coaches. But first I listen to my body. If what they tell me suits my body, great. If my body doesn't feel good with what they say, then always my body comes first.
Haile GebrselassieRead
Once you have commitment, you need the discipline and hard work to get you there.
Haile GebrselassieRead
The marathon always starts after 30K. That's where the problems start. You start without any problems, without any pain. All the pain comes after 30K. Sometimes, it's possible to have pain even in the finger.
Haile GebrselassieRead
First, do enough training. Then believe in yourself and say: I can do it. Tomorrow is my day. And then say: the person in front of me, he is just a human being as well; he has two legs, I have two legs, that is all. That is mentally how you prepare.
Haile GebrselassieRead
Similar quotes
The world of sports knows no religious, racial or political differences. Athletes, from whatever land they come, speak the same language. The lessons of competition are lessons for life.
Robert KennedyRead
To me it was never about what I accomplished on the football field, it was about the way I played the game.
Jerry RiceRead
Basketball is booming, and it's not just an Under Armour standpoint: it's about the game itself. Kids going out and playing and being inspired by what we do on the court.
Stephen CurryRead
Football is a vocation and an opportunity for ministry. But it's not a life.
Tony DungyRead
Boxing isn't just about brute strength; it's about skill and outwitting your opponent.
Lennox LewisRead
Sports constantly make demands on the participant for top performance, and they develop integrity, self-reliance and initiative. They teach you a lot about working in groups, without being unduly submerged in the group.
Byron WhiteRead