Athlete Quotes - Men’s 800M Prelims

Khadevis Robinson – Winner Men’s 800M (Heat 1)
 
On his prelim race:
“The race went alright today. The main thing was to get in the top three. Now I just need to focus and get prepared for tomorrow.”
 
On preparation for tomorrow:
“I just need to do the things I always do before a race. I need to drink nutrients, eat properly, and get rest so I can come back tomorrow and run tough.”
 
Bernard Lagat – Men’s 800M (Heat 1)
 
On his prelim race:
“I felt alright out there. I wanted to run fast out there but I’m still trying to learn how to run the 800 meters again. I can’t even remember the last time I ran the 800. But it was a good run for me, another step in my training.”
 
Christian Smith – Winner Men’s 800M (Heat 2)
 
On today’s preliminary race:
“I felt alright. Going into it I was pretty nervous, I was ready to get this meet started. It’s nice to be done with the first day.”
 
On running at Historic Hayward Field:
“I have run here quite a bit. I did really good at the (Prefontaine Classic) just a couple of weeks ago. I feel comfortable here. I know where to warm up and I know what to do with my routine. It feels good to be on a track I know so well.”
 
On the remainder of the meet:
“The first goal is to advance and get into the final. You can’t win or go to the World’s if you aren’t in the final. I need to get there, and when I am there, I need to try and win.”
 
Tevan Everett – Winner Men’s 800M (Heat 3)
 
On his prelim race:
 “It was a good first race, post-collegiate. There were a lot of good guys out there who had the same tactical plan as me. I had to work a lot harder and I lost my stride a lot out there. It was a good experience. Now in the second round I know what to expect. I have to get relaxed and not mess with what is behind me.”
 
Nick Symmonds – Winner Men’s 800M (Heat 4)
 
On winning today’s preliminary:
“I feel great. I’ve been working out twice a day, every day. That’s what it takes.”