Maiyo Eyes Third All-American Honor in 2008
9/10/2008 12:00:00 AM
Sept. 10, 2008
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - When Augustus Maiyo arrived at the Capstone four years ago in the spring of 2005, the Kapsabet, Kenya native stepped off the plane into a whole new world. Everything was new for him, including the language, food and even the weather.
"A lot of things were going on when I first came to Alabama," Maiyo recalled. "At first, it was the weather because I first got here in January and it was cold. At the same time, the food I found here was different from what I was eating back home and the only foods I found that were similar were rice and peanuts. Everything was completely different, and I didn't know what was going on. I was lost."
Maiyo was recruited by several other schools and the decision came down to either the University of Arizona or the University of Alabama. In the end, cross country coach Joe Walker was able to sway him to run for the Crimson Tide. Walker treated Maiyo as one of his own family and helped him make the tough transition between two very different lifestyles.
"Coach Walker is obviously my coach, but he is also like a father and a counselor to me," Maiyo said. "I have been with him for the last four years and I don't see myself ever forgetting him or what he's done for me. It's very sad that this is my last cross country season, but regardless, he'll still be in my life."
Over the past four years, Maiyo has become one of the most successful distance runners in Alabama school history. He is ranked in Alabama's all-time top 10 in seven events. In addition, he is a SEC champion in the 3,000 meter steeplechase and a two-time All-American (3,000m steeplechase and cross country).
"I'm aiming for a third All-America honor [in cross country] if my body will cooperate with the cold and tough weather at the NCAA Championships," Maiyo said. "After this cross country season, I will begin training to pursue my passion in the steeplechase. I would like to run between sub-8:10 before I retire."
Maiyo will graduate at the end of this year with a degree in General Health Studies. He would like to pursue a career in epidemiology.
Maiyo will begin his campaign for a third All-America honor on Sept. 20 at the 20th Annual Crimson Classic. The meet will be held at the Harry Pritchett Running Park with the men's 8,000 meter competitors toeing the line at 8:45 a.m.
