Olympian and Boston Marathon winner visits local elementary school

The annual Mustang Marathon at Alice Byrne Elementary got started Wednesday with the help of Meb Keflezighi, an Olympian and Boston Marathon winner.

The 26.2 mile run is completed throughout the school year by students. Before it got started, Keflezighi shared stories of his success and challenges he’s faced throughout life, giving the kids positive reinforcement for their dreams.

“Work hard and be the best that you can,” Keflezighi said. “I always say run to win, it doesn’t mean first place, but to get the best in life, for whatever you decide to do.”

Keflezighi earned the silver medal for long-distance running in the 2004 Olympics in Athens. He was also the first person to complete the 2014 Boston Marathon. However, he told everyone his challenges in life and perseverance came at a young age.

He was born in Eritrea, located in northern Africa. Growing up his home was in the midst of a liberation war; forced to leave his home he traveled to Italy and further immigrated to the United States.

Having overcome those obstacles and achieving such success in long-distance running, Keflezighi created a foundation for aspiring youth. It’s called M.E.B. and it stands for Maintaining Excellent Balance. His foundation provides resources, education and fitness to youth.

“Some people need inspiration, some people need shoes, so on behalf of the MEB foundation we try to reach out to different communities and give them what they need,” he said.

To see his full journey and find out more about his foundation visit https://marathonmeb.com/meb-foundation/