Bernard Lagat joined USA Track & Field in 2026 after a distinguished career as an athlete, coach and athlete representative.
A five-time Olympian and World Championships medalist, Lagat competed for both Kenya and the United States during his career. He won World Championships titles in the 1,500 and 5,000 meters and was a former national record holder in the 1,500 meters.
Born and raised in Kapsabet, Kenya, Lagat grew up in a family of runners. He was the fifth of 10 children, and several of his siblings also competed at a high level, including Olympian Violah Cheptoo Lagat and former University of Arizona standout Robert Cheseret.
Lagat attended Washington State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems and Decision Science in 2000. Following his competitive career, Lagat served on the World Athletics Athletes' Commission from 2019 to 2023, representing athletes' interests within the international governing body. He has also served on the USATF Board of Directors.
Lagat has experience in coaching as well. He served as head cross country coach and assistant coach at the University of Arizona, where he worked with collegiate athletes. He has also volunteered as a club coach with Tucson Elite Athletic Club.
In his role with USATF, Lagat oversees youth programs and works on initiatives supporting the development of young athletes. He also serves as a sports ambassador for the World Stroke Association.
Lagat is married to Gladys and has two children, Miika and Gianna. He enjoys golf, fishing and traveling.