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When you run the marathon, you run against the distance, not against the other runners and not against the time.
Haile Gebrselassie
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The focus of running a marathon is on personal endurance rather than competition with others.

This quote by Haile Gebrselassie emphasizes the importance of personal goals and self-improvement over competing with others. When participating in a marathon, the true challenge lies in confronting the distance and pushing one's own limits, not merely racing against fellow runners or seeking to beat a clock. It is a reminder that the journey towards achieving a goal is often more significant than the outcome.

Themes

MarathonEnduranceSelf-ImprovementCompetitionPersonal Goals

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech at a sports event.

More from Haile Gebrselassie

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 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.
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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.
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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.
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

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