Then I received support from the Government to compete for my country, and to represent Cuba in competition.

I am always fighting inside the Council to get the message across that at each competition venue, we should send somebody to inspect and to make sure the athletes will be looked after in a correct manner.

In Cuba we use our champions to promote the sport.

And then you have the responsibility and the duty of being good examples to youngsters, not smoke, training hard, go to bed early, don't drink alcohol, don't take drugs, it's very important to have a policy for educating against doping.

I love music, and outside of work my family keeps me very busy, I have five children to keep track of.

I run in practically every single road race in my country, 5k, 10k just to promote the sport.

Be very strong... be very methodical in your life if you want to be a champion.