Edward Kemboi wanted to cry as he crossed the line of the national championship. He wanted to celebrate. He wanted to hug his coaches and teammates.
Normally, the senior celebrates by bringing his hand to his face and waving it, a tongue-in-cheek ode to his favorite wrestler, John Cena. But this day was too important, too special for gimmicks.
This was the feeling he’d chased for nearly his whole life. It was the reason he began running as a small child. It’s the reason he pushed through a lost season and disappointment, returning to Iowa State every year with more resolve.