Latvia's Greatest National Asset: Jeļena Prokopčuka

Almost every person can run a marathon but they have to be ready. Prepare slowly, slowly - that way you can improve your stamina. Running is about stamina, speed and strength. Speed is a talent whereas stamina can be improved. You need two years, in my opinion, to mentally prepare for a marathon. Your first goal is five kilometres. It is very difficult to do a marathon - you must be ready. And you must accept that once it is done you will need a lot of time to recover. I've been doing this for twenty years but I still take preparation very seriously. I prepared for six months for my first marathon.

My husband and a lot of his friends are marathon runners. I was afraid the first time I ran a marathon - I only thought about the dead point while I was running. I was waiting and waiting and I didn't feel anything. I only ran properly after that. My husband witnessed this and remarked that I am a natural marathon runner.

I actually feel something happen after fifteen kilometres, then, perhaps, at thirty. The last seven kilometres are very difficult of course.

I met my husband at competitions. The first time I saw him was at the Daugava Stadium. He only started running at 25 but he is actually the Latvian record holder. He was also in the '96 Olympics and came fifty-first in the marathon. He understands me, supports and helps me. I think a man can be alone in sport but not a woman. Without Alex I would never have won in New York. If I win, it's like he wins. He inspires me.

I like running because it is the one thing I can do well. I do it for a living, not as a hobby. I want to go to the Olympics as a coach. It is difficult to coach good athletes - you need special character, so let's see.

How long you ran depends very much on your health and wishes. I think I will run till I'm 40. After 40 it is very, very difficult because you are competing against some very young, fit people. At 40 you have great knowledge and experience, but not health.

Who do you most respect in the world of women's long distance running?