Lagat grew up on his family's farm, about 1.5 miles from school. This early exposure to running laid the foundation for his future career. He concentrated on his studies as a youth and did not take running seriously until he began studying at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He started running competitively at age 22.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Lagat has achieved numerous accolades. In 1999, he was named NCAA Indoor Male Athlete of the Year and Men's Track & Field Co-Athlete of the Year. He also became the first US athlete to win both the 3000m and 5000m events at a continental cup in Spilt, Croatia, in 2010.

At the 2007 World Championships in Osaka, Japan, Lagat became the first athlete to win both the 1500m and 5000m events at the same world championships. The mayor of Pullman, Washington, declared December 9 as Bernard Lagat Day in 2007 to honour his achievements.

Challenges and Injuries

Lagat faced several challenges throughout his career. He dropped out of the 5000m at the 2016 Prefontaine Classic due to a cold virus and missed the 2015 Diamond League Meeting in Oslo due to another virus. In 2008, he failed to qualify for the final of the 1500m event at the Beijing Olympics due to an injury.

Personal Life

Lagat resides in Tucson, Arizona, with his wife Gladys Tom, son Miika Kimutai (born in 2006), and daughter Gianna. He speaks English and Swahili fluently. His higher education includes studies in Management Information Systems and Econometrics at Washington State University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture Technology.

Influences and Hobbies

Lagat credits his sister Mary Chepkemboi and Moroccan long-distance runner Hicham El Guerrouj as the most influential people in his career. His hobbies include playing golf.

Coaching and Training

James Li has been Lagat's personal coach since 1996. Lagat attributes his longevity in athletics to a balanced diet and careful planning of races. His wife Gladys Tom, a registered dietitian, plays a crucial role in ensuring he is well-nourished.

Humanitarian Efforts

Lagat has also shown a commitment to humanitarian causes. He donated all his winnings from the 2010 indoor season to the Haiti Relief Fund after an earthquake struck the country in January 2010.

Retirement Plans

Lagat plans to end track competition after the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and focus on road running, particularly marathons. He does not plan to move up to this discipline competitively but wants to experience running 26 miles.

Lagat's career is marked by significant achievements and contributions both on and off the track. His dedication to running, combined with his humanitarian efforts, makes him a notable figure in athletics.