Cross Country Q&A - Futsum Zeinasellassie

Todd Grasley

North Central School senior Futsum Zeinasellassie is not just one of the top runners in the Hoosier state, but one of the best in the nation. Last year Zeinasellassie finished second at Foot Locker Nationals and with the graduation of Lukas Verzbicas has his eyes set on the title. See what else the star has in mind for 2011 including a goal of going under 14:30!

You come from a small country Eritrea on the horn of Africa and now you are in Indianapolis. When did you come to the states and what has that transition been like?

First, thank you for the opportunity to introduced myself. I came to the states in mid 2007. I've been here almost five years and the transition was very difficult, but after time it was alright. When I was in my country I used to go to school for five hours and go out play half of the day. In the United States you go to school for like eight hours and if you play sports you need to go to practice and do homework so there is no time for having fun. Where I'm from it does not matter how old you are you are always doing something.

Coming from Africa how much of an influence do guys like Haile Gebrselassie have on you as a runner?

Being from East Africa is great. It makes me want to work hard and I want to be a great runner like them.

How do you train for cross country season?

My summer training consists of about 55 miles per week.

What is an ideal course for you and do you have a typical race strategy you like to use?

I love a hilly course and I don't really have a race strategy I just go out there to win.

Do you have a favorite song or style of music you listen to before a race to get you pumped?

Actually, I don't listen to any music. Instead of getting pumped I try to calm myself down before the race by just telling myself it is like training just run with the front group and you'll be fine.

You used to play soccer, but gave that up three years ago. What else do you enjoy outside of running?

My other hobbies are going to church on Saturday and Sunday. Besides that I like watching movies and hanging out with my friends.

You run sub 15 minutes last year and finish second at Foot Locker Nationals. What are your goals for your senior season?

My goal for this season is first to win state if God is willing. After state I want to run Foot Locker and hopefully pull out the title if that is necessary and maybe run Nike Nationals too. My time goal is to rub sub 14:30.


Personal Bests



  • Two Mile Run9:00.34

  • 3200 Meter Run8:56.73

  • 5000 Meter Run14:36.20

  • One Mile Run4:17.12


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