Once you have commitment, you need the discipline and hard work to get you there.

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

This is what I wanted. They tell me that London is the best field in history. I wanted to be part of that. Because everyone will be there it will be a wonderful challenge for me. You can see the best runners, how they look, how they run. For me to beat the best is what counts.

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.

I feel a social responsibility. We need to open people's eyes. There is a lack of education in Ethiopia.

Since I achieved something, running has exploded in my country. For me sometimes it is difficult even to know who the athletes are who are competing at the highest level. There are thousands.

I think if you come first with a new world record, that is the best.