Meseret Defar

Meseret Defar Tola (19 November 1983) is an Ethiopian long-distance runner who competes chiefly in the 3000 metres and 5000 metres events.

Meseret Defar in 2016

Quotes

• I think I knew what discipline was as a child growing up at home. In Ethiopia there are things that you just have to accomplish. For example, I had always had to fetch water from the nearest river and wood from the forest, even though there were hyenas all around. That’s how you learn that sometimes you have to overcome things.
  • Meseret Defar: “In Ethiopia, We Learn How to Overcome” (23 June 2007) Take The Magic Step
• I have a good chance. I'm in good shape and I'm feeling fine, but there are other strong athletes in the field and I will never stop fighting for it.
  • Dibaba on course for distance double (7 August 2012) Bangkok Post