“Best Course… Waiting to Fly Again”

Fujita Atsushi (藤田敦. 25. Fujitsu) is Japan’s best marathoner, who has set the Asian record of 2 hours 6 minutes 51 seconds during 2000 Fukuoka International Marathon, and he is to take part in 2002 Donga Seoul International Marathon (DSIM). This will be his 5th full course- marathon. Fujita, who has a small body but perfect form, responded to an interview at Chiba Fujitsu building, Japan.

- How do you feel to participate in DSIM?

“Above all, I feel quite excited because this would be my first visit in Seoul. I’ve seen last year’s recording, and the course looks excellent. I plan to go to Seoul on 14th myself and check on it.”

- What is your motive for taking part in DSIM?

“People have been paying attention at the tournaments I participated so far. Except for last year’s international championship, I ran mostly in domestic tournaments and I feel it’s time for me to experience overseas. Seoul is only 2 or 3 hours away from here, and the weather is similar to Japan, which will cause less stress. Besides, the course is good too. I want to let my name known in the world through Donga marathon.”

- What are the significance and goals of your participation in this tournament?

“The results were quite unsatisfactory in Edmonton International Championship, last August. I want to make up for it in Donga marathon, and repay for my fans. This tournament means a lot to me. I wish to make some top finishing results that I myself can accept. I heard many brilliant runners are coming this year. I’ll do my best to make no mistake.”

-How are you preparing for Donga marathon?

“I am spending average 2 or 3 hours everyday for training. I concentrated on long-distance training that works on stamina for about a month or two after I began practicing, but now I am focusing on speed. In the early stage, I did lots of high-altitude training as well. I am doing my best to maintain the best body conditions before the big run”

- What about special diet before the tournament?

“There is nothing special. Because I love spicy food, I get Kimchi from supermarkets. I feel excited for going to Seoul, where I can eat lots of spicy food. I want to eat a lot after the tournament.”

- According to experts, your form is said to be very good. They say you are able to run economically without spending too much energy. How did you attain your runing form?

“I didn’t consciously make or shape my form. I got accustomed to it quite naturally after continuous long-distance training. Doesn’t everybody have their own comfortable and easy posture?”

- There are rumors of your ankle injury. How are your physical conditions?

“When I started training for Donga marathon, my feet were not good conditions. Usually 3 to 4 months are needed for marathon training, but I only had 2 months this time. So heavy training caused some pain and swelling. But things turned betters recently, and the pain is almost gone now. I am not too concerned.”

- This tournament will host many good runners like Gert Thys (South Africa), who ran 2 hours 6 minutes 33 seconds, and France’s Driss El Himer, who marked 2 hours 7 minutes 02 second. Can you win?

“I am keeping them in mind, but I can’t lose. I also have set a good record in the past, and I am sure others mark me too. I’ll be confident doing my best.”

- You said you respect Korea’s Lee Bong-Jo the most, what is the reason? Isn’t it regretful for you to miss Lee in this tournament since he is not participating?

“I once met Lee during 2000 Fukuoka International Marathon, and we had a short conversation. He has the image of being `strong` rather than `fast`. African runners do well in good conditions, but when situations get bad, their results worsen as well. But I believe Lee is a strong runner in any circumstance. I also want to be a strong runner, rather than a fast one. It is regretful, indeed, to miss him this time.”

- A word for Korean fans…

“In this Donga marathon, I’ll show the Korean fans the same energy and strength I’ve displayed in Fukuoka, when I set the Asian record. Do wait for me.”

- This is also the year for Korea Japan World Cup. Do you like soccer?

“I do, but marathon is taking up almost all of my time and interest. I want to emphasize on the significance of my participation in a Korean marathon that it is to help and stimulate exchange between the two countries, as we will be co-hosting the World Cup”

- How long do you sleep? Hobbies? Do you a girl friend?

“I sleep for good average of 7 to 8 hours. When I have time, I listen to Japanese pop music. I particularly like this duet group called B’Z, that I always listen to their music before running to keep good feelings. I also have interest in fashion, which makes shopping fun. I do have a girl friend. I have no time because of training, but I try to meet her as much as possible.”

Young-Ee Lee yes202@donga.com