Cheseret will be the key to Arizona's success

1. Robert, you finished 2nd to Kip Kangogo two weeks ago at the Roy Griak Invitational. Can you take us back to the race and explain how it unfolded?

I felt really strong and I think it was a good race given that it was my second cross country race for the season.

2. Could you tell the readers how you got involved in running and what your best times are?

When I was younger I used to see my brothers and sisters winning races in high school and that made me excited. It encouraged me a lot. So when I reached the high school level I started running. My personal bests are 13:45.88 in the 5,000m, 1:50.87 in the 800m and 3:45.61 in the 1,500m.

3. What brought you from Kapsabet (Kenya) to Arizona?

I went to Arizona because I knew Coach Lli and my brother moved to Tucson, so it was very convenient for me.

4. What is the training environment like in Tucson? Do you train much with Arizona graduate Abdi Abdirahman?

The weather in Tucson is warm and good enough for training. I find it very important for my training. I do train with Abdi Abdirahman especially when I have long runs and workouts.

5. I see that your brother, Bernard, was the bronze medalist at the 2000 Olympics in the 1500 meters. What are your plans for the Olympic Games in Athens? Which event will you concentrate on if you do plan on competing?

I am planning to go run 5,000m in Kenyan trials next year during selection for the Olympics team, I know it is going to be a big challenge running with professional Kenyan athletes there but I am going to try my best.

6. Your team entered the season ranked 18th in the country. How does the team look after having a few races under its belt?

We look improved and in better shape as compared to the start of our season.

7. What are your team and individual goals for the rest of the season?

Our goal is to qualify for the NCAA and produce the best out of our ability.

8. What is the basic philosophy behind Arizona’s training program?

Our training philosophy is running consistent mileage, hill workouts and [speed] work outs (per week).

9. What are your thoughts on all the recent drug scandals that have been occurring within the sport?

If you don’t do it then there is nothing to hide or worry about.

10. What are your hobbies/interests outside of running?

I am always listening to music; I like watching football, volleyball, and basketball games.

11. What running accomplishment is most memorable to you so far?

Breaking the school’s freshman 5,000 meters record with a time of 13:45.88 seconds. Finishing second in the 5,000m at the Pac-10 Championship and third at the NCAA Outdoor Championships.

12. Do you have any advice for other collegiate runners?

I would tell other collegiate runners to work hard, run hard, believe in themselves, and never give up.