Meb Keflezighi

Meb Keflezighi is an American long-distance runner, born on May 5, 1975, in Asmara, Eritrea. He is universally acclaimed as one of the greatest marathoners of all time. Keflezighi started his professional career in 1998, following his college education at UCLA, where he won multiple titles, including four NCAA championships.

Keflezighi is known for his endurance, speed, and strategic racing tactics. He has achieved numerous individual accolades, including an Olympic silver medal, and holds multiple records, including being the only athlete in history to win the New York Marathon, the Boston Marathon, and an Olympic medal.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Keflezighi is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

After immigrating to the United States as a child, Keflezighi found success in high school and college races before turning professional in 1998. His career achievements include victories at the New York City and Boston Marathons, as well as a silver medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics.

Representing the United States, Keflezighi has taken part in three Olympic Games. He won the silver medal in the marathon at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, becoming the first American man to medal in the marathon since 1976. He also represented the USA in the 2000 and 2012 Olympics.

Keflezighi competes primarily in long-distance road events, such as the half-marathon and marathon. He is renowned for his endurance, speed, and racing tactics. Known for his training discipline, Keflezighi's strategic racing style often leads to strong finishes in competitive races.

Keflezighi is married and has three daughters. He is a devout Christian and often mentions his faith as a source of strength in his racing. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in promoting physical fitness and education for youth.

Meb Keflezighi is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records, but also for his determination, resilience, and longevity in professional running. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the race course, inspiring thousands of fans and future athletes around the world.

Olympic Silver Medal:

• 2004 Athens Olympics

New York City Marathon:

• Winner in 2009

Boston Marathon:

• Winner in 2014

USA Track & Field Distance Runner of the Year:

• 2000, 2004, 2009, 2012, 2014

Books

• Keflezighi, M. (2015) Meb For Mortals: How to Run, Think, and Eat like a Champion Marathoner. Rodale Books.
• Keflezighi, M. (2012) Run to Overcome: The Inspiring Story of an American Champion's Long-Distance Quest to Achieve a Big Dream. Tyndale Momentum.

Websites

• USA Track & Field: Information about Meb Keflezighi’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.usatf.org
• New York Road Runners: Details about Keflezighi’s New York City Marathon victory. Available at: https://www.nyrr.org
• Boston Athletic Association: Official site with updates on Keflezighi’s Boston Marathon victory. Available at: https://www.baa.org

Articles

• Runner's World: Meb Keflezighi’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.runnersworld.com/meb-keflezighi
• The Guardian: How Meb Keflezighi became a marathon champion. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/apr/22/meb-keflezighi-boston-marathon

Interviews and Documentaries

• Run Meb (2015): A documentary that provides a detailed look at Keflezighi’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Meb Keflezighi, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com