Believe me, the reward is not so great without the struggle.

It doesn't matter what you're trying to accomplish. It's all a matter of discipline. I was determined to discover what life held for me beyond the inner-city streets.

I had a series of childhood illnesses... scarlet fever.... pneumonia.... Polio. I walked with braces until I was at least nine years old. My life wasn't like the average person who grew up and decided to enter the world of sports.

I believe in me more than anything in this world.

The triumph can't be had without the struggle.

Believe me, the reward is not so great without the struggle.

I loved the feeling of freedom in running, the fresh air, the feeling that the only person I'm competing with is me.