When some think of running, it's usually put in terms of getting away from some great danger or annoyance. But to Zed Jimbo, a University of Memphis senior computer science major, running is his passion.
"For me, running is a way of life," he said.
Jimbo has been running since he was a child in his native Kenya. He is a world-class athlete.
"I train 70 to 140 hours a week," Jimbo said. "It depends on what time of year it is (semester wise)."
His talent has been met with hardships, which makes running difficult. He has a frozen or atrophied shoulder that resulted from two different injuries.
"Also some of my exercises were not appropriate for my shoulder," he said.
He uses his running ability to give back to the world as a marathon runner.
"He is doing a great job with charity work. He enjoys doing that," said Steve Conlee, a U of M web specialist and Jimbo's co-worker.
Running has taken him all over the world.
"I think of him as a world traveler," he said. "I am fascinated with his knowledge of international relations."
His mentor, Paul Tergat, is also from Kenya and recently won the New York Marathon. He is also an Olympic runner.
"He has taught me a great deal and is a good friend," Jimbo said.
Jimbo has run marathons in Kenya as well as the Chicago marathon twice. He has also run for St. Jude, raising more than $10,000.
"I am very supportive of St. Jude," Jimbo said. "It makes me feel complete, like I am making a difference."
Conlee said Jimbo loves charity work.
"It thrills him to no end to give to those in need," he said.
Jimbo has been in America for four years and in Memphis for two.
"The people are laid back," Jimbo said. "The weather doesn't fluctuate that much."
He previously lived in Chicago, where weather fluctuates in the form of fierce wind and frigid tempatures.
"I have many friends there still," he said.
Since living in the U.S., he has achieved permanent resident status but is not yet a naturalized citizen. He wants to become an American.
"It's diverse," he said the U.S. "Americans are very generous people in terms of giving me a chance and that enables me to be able to impart something positive on people's lives."
Conlee said that Jimbo does not brag about his accomplishments.
"He's modest and you have to pull it (his accomplishments out of him)," Conlee said.
Amelia Akpotu, a senior computer engineering technology major, said Jimbo is a pleasant addition to any group.
"He is a loyal friend and he's fun to be around," she said.
Both Akpotu and Conlee agree he is a go-getter.
"He is someone who has valid ambitions," Akpotu said.
Conlee said he thinks he has a thirst for knowledge.
"He is very interested in continuing his learning in most things," Conlee said.
Despite his injury, Jimbo will run in the St. Jude/Memphis Grizzlies House Marathon Dec. 3.
"I will be running because I have to raise money for the underprivileged," he said. "That is my duty.
Running and volunteer work are not his only interests. He also enjoys making computer software.
"I have a passion for developing good software that will educate, inform and improve," he said.
An example of Jimbo's ambition is evident in his desire to participate in 2008 Summer Olympic games.
"I don't care if I am on the American or Kenyan team, which ever one will take me," he said.
