INDIANAPOLIS - USA Track and Field, the governing body of track and field in the United States has named five-time Olympian and eight-time World Champion Bernard Lagat as its new General Manager of Youth Programs.
In his new role, Lagat, the second fastest 1500m runner in history, will oversee USATF’s diverse menu of youth initiatives including Junior Olympics, Youth National Championships and U20 championships. Lagat will also lead the charge to launch new youth offerings including camps and mentor programs.
”I’m truly honored to serve as General Manager of Youth Programs at USATF,” said Lagat. “Track & Field has been a defining part of my athletics journey, and I’m excited to now bring leadership, experience and share my passion for youth development from grassroots participation to national-level elite programs, including para-athletics.”
"I’m grateful to USATF for the opportunity and the confidence to lead in this important area. I look forward to working with the youth division leaders, associations and regional leaders, coaches and parents in shaping the next generation of champions, on and off the track.”
“Bernard’s record on the track has amazed and inspired runners around the world,” said Max Siegel, CEO of USA Track & Field. “We are excited to see him continue to inspire and educate the next generation of Olympic hopefuls.”
Lagat most recently worked for the University of Arizona as the head cross country coach and assistant track and field coach. He also served as a member of USATF’s Board of Directors. Born in Kenya, Lagat came to the United States to run for Washington State University where he won three NCAA titles. He became a U.S. citizen in 2004. In his two-decade professional career, Lagat won Olympic bronze and silver medals in the 1500m. Among his 11-world titles is his historic 1500m/5000m double victory from the 2007 World Championships in Osaka. He’s the American record holder in the 1500m and formerly held national records in the 3000m, two-mile and 5000m.
Lagat becomes the sixth Olympian employed by USATF. Other Olympians working at the national office include Sharrieffa Barksdale (1984, 400m hurdles), Amy Begley (2008 10,000m), Wallace Spearmon Jr. (2008, 200m), Rob Mullett (2016, steeplechase) and Erik Kynard Jr. (2012, high jump).