Now that he is taking his work seriously, Chebet is a favorite to win Boston. So is his friend, countryman, and two-time winner Moses Tanui. In a lot of ways, Chebet knows what to expect. He also knows that during such a long race, one's mind can drift. Even if you are a defending champion.
Fans tend to think a champion's mind is obsessively focused on winning and the finish line.
Not so, says Chebet. Sometimes he thinks of his family. Sometimes there are thoughts of the course and conditions. Sometimes, he says with a smile, there are thoughts of women. The thin man begins to speak even faster.