Sonny met world record holder Haile Gebrselassie of Ethiopia at the 2001 World Track and Field Championships in Edmonton, Canada. On this occasion, though, Haile wasn't racing -- Sonny was!
Haile was the guest of honor at a special 800-meters race for the media. Before lining up for his heat, Sonny put his arm around Haile and asked for a few racing tips.
Haile Gebrselassie is a two-time Olympic champion in the 10,000 meters race, winning the gold medal in Atlanta, in 1996, and in Sydney, in 2000. Haile is also the world record holder at both 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters. On April 14, 2002, Haile Gebrselassie is planning to make his competitive marathon debut in London.