- plays a great role in my life though we have parted ways. He is a man of exemplary behaviour and lived according to what he preached. Never once has he faltered in his convictions-he made it a point to be a good role model to his athletics. When I first met him, I shared with him my goal of going to JC and eventually to a local university. Even though he was just a coach to me, he spent personal time with me after every training to check on my academic progress. When I was on schedule, he praised me for a job well done, when I was falling behind, he reprimanded me. He took my ambitions upon himself as a parent. He taught me many life-long lessons as he guided me along. He also taught me that even as a student, one could learn how to juggle both studies and passion (running)-striving to be the best in all areas of one's life is possible and beneficial as experiential learning for the future ahead. That is not to say that I was a model student; I have my flaws and failed him many times. However, despite all the rejection and rebellion I showed against him, as a strict but loving guardian, he gave me many chances and always eventually brought me on track. He has a great influence in my life because of the many teachings that he has imparted to me through running which also serve as life lessons. Even till now, I still think and reflect upon what he taught me in the past and use them as indicators to keep me on track of my ambitions.