SAN DIEGO — Retired world-class runner Meb Keflezighi enjoyed the past weekend in San Diego acting as ambassador and part owner of the Carlsbad 5000.
The 48-year-old will be in Boston this weekend, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at Sunday's Red Sox game and then running the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 15.
This is the 10th anniversary of winning in Boston. It was the first running of the race after the bombing during the race in 2013 where three people were killed and hundreds injured, 17 who lost limbs. It tested the resolve of a strong city.
CBS 8's John Howard caught up with Meb while he was in San Diego to talk about last weekend's Carlsbad 5-k, and the Boston Marathon next week. Here is their conversation:
John: First, let's talk about the Carlsbad 5000.
Meb: It's such a great event because it's nationally and internationally known and this year was a new course. So no more train tracks. Whenever I'm running, I'd like to be next to the water. So it's just the kind of things that keeps your mind a little bit off the pain, and the view is great.
John: :Le's talk about the Boston Marathon. I know you're running it next week. Tell me your thoughts about it. And what are you looking forward to?
Meb: You know, I'm scared a little bit because I know it's going to hurt a lot more. I had hurt bad then but this time it is going to be more of a celebration run.
John: At 48 years young you don't plan to win the race this time?
Meb: Don't worry. I'm not going to win the Boston Marathon. I'm just trying to finish around three hours as my goal. Training has been really good. Not perfect. I had ruptured my quad on Thanksgiving Day in November trying to play soccer with the family. So I recovered from that, took a month off and now I'm on my way back. So, I'm looking forward to it.
John: You're going to have to eliminate the Turkey Soccer Bowl, Meb.
Meb: That's right. I am so used to going forward. That's what I need to focus on again, because the lateral movement is not very good for my body.
John: You're not a linebacker, you're a marathon runner! The memories of running Boston and winning at the age of 38. How special was it?
Meb: It was pretty special. I mean, to have the victim's names on my bib. You know, I was scared the sponsor would get offended but it went viral and to have those names carry me through the 26 miles. It was painful. A lot of weight on my shoulders but the finish was epic.
Meb: For it to be two weeks from my 39th birthday. My goal was to win top three and run a personal best and I was able to do those things and to be able to say I won the Boston Marathon and lead the 36,000 people who want to do something positive for the streets and for the sport (after the bombing). It still gives me chills to talk about it.
Meb: A comeback story and for me to be able to lead the 36,000 was just incredible.
When Meb runs on Monday, he'll be running for the Meb Foundation to promote health, education and fitness to empower young kids. Originally from Eriteria, he ran for San Diego High School and UCLA.
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