Fatuma Roba Quotes

Before the race I was afraid of the others with better times, but soon I realized that they were not running fast today, I picked up the speed and they would not follow. At that point I was already sure that I would win because I practiced very hard.

They all went out of their way, getting us awards and everything.

Never again, never again will I do this distance, it is too long.

I really did not get any encouragement from anyone, but I pushed on because I liked to run. I made my first national team in 1988.

The reaction I felt from people had a big impact on me, I suddenly felt such a great sense of responsibility. I felt that I had to try to keep running, as long as I possibly could.

Well, for me the greatest of all marathons is of course the olympic marathon, but second place is Boston.

Even if I never ran again, I would have been content.

I knew I would be the Olympic Champion. I was running and the others were looking backwards, so I understood that they were tired, when for me the pace was easy. It was nice, because I could run strong and enjoy.

I've been told there is a big hill, but I didn't see it.

Sometimes, if there are a lot of people around me when I go to a store, I feel a bit intimidated. I used to be shy. I still consider myself shy, but I'm a little better now and I'm getting used to it.

I do not really want to be famous,But it's nice to be among the renowned athletes.

I am hoping to make history, I feel like I have made good preparation.

I knew of 1960 Olympic marathon winner Abebe Bikila and 1968 winner Mamo Wolde from the radio, so I thought I’d try it, too.

I'm very happy to win a second time, I found it to be a very easy race.

This is not only a special thing for me but also for my country and all African women.