Jackson Langat, 2006 NCAA indoor champion in the 800 meters, sits down with John Boller to let the Skiff know a little more about the four-time-All-American from Kericho, Kenya.What do you use as motivation when training or right before a track meet?

The passion that I have for running is what motivates. I love to run. It is easy to get myself prepared for meets, and when I do train I don’t see it as work, but I see it as fun, I enjoy running and enjoy the competition of running as well.

Is there anyone that inspires you or that you look up to?

Yes, Jeremy Wariner, the Olympic Gold Medalist and former track star at Baylor University. I enjoy watching him run. He is very good at what he does. Also, my fellow countrymen from Kenya inspire me. I want them to be proud of me and hope all the best for them.

How long have you been involved with track competitively?

I first started running when I was 19 and came TCU. I was told that I might be able to get a scholarship for being on the track team. So, I trained, worked, and pushed myself as hard as I could, and fortunately, the hard work paid off and help me get to where I am now.

Is there anything about running that you do not like?

Well, I hate to lose. You work real hard and hope to do your best. Being injured is also difficult. It is hard to recover from injuries quickly. Since you are constantly running when you get injured, it takes longer to completely heal.

What is your favorite thing about running?

Winning. When I win a race I am glad, but not just because I won, because then I see how my work and dedication to the sport has paid off. I also am happy to win the race because it helps the team also. Anytime I can help the team in a positive way, it is always a good feeling.

Finally, is there any other sport or activity that you would like to try?

I would like to try football and soccer. I think that with my abilities I would enjoy football and soccer.