Coming from a farming background, I saw nothing out of the ordinary in running barefoot, although it seemed to startle the rest of the athletics world. I have always enjoyed going barefoot and when I was growing up I seldom wore shoes, even when I went into town.
Meaning of the quote
Zola Budd, a South African athlete, grew up on a farm where going barefoot was normal for her. She didn't think it was strange to run without shoes, but the rest of the sports world was surprised. Zola loved being barefoot and often didn't wear shoes, even when she went to town.
About Zola Budd
Zola Budd was a South African middle-distance and long-distance runner who competed in the Olympics for Great Britain and South Africa. She was known for running barefoot and holding world records in the 5000 meters. Budd later moved to the USA and competed in marathons and ultramarathons before returning to South Africa.
More quotes from Zola Budd
I no longer run barefoot.
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Looking back… it’s hard to understand what all the fuss was about as things changed in just a few years. When you look at all the things that have happened in the world, it seems very small.
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I will never regret not denouncing apartheid.
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Tea-shops were to become my favourite haunts in England.
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I found them uncomfortable and after that I decided to continue running barefoot because I found it more comfortable. I felt more in touch with what was happening – I could actually feel the track.
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I can drink tea until the cows come home and I love the atmosphere in tea-shops.
South African competitive runner
Coming from a farming background, I saw nothing out of the ordinary in running barefoot, although it seemed to startle the rest of the athletics world. I have always enjoyed going barefoot and when I was growing up I seldom wore shoes, even when I went into town.
South African competitive runner
I have strong views about South African politics and I still don’t feel I need to make public statements.
South African competitive runner