Giat will look to claim an MVC individual championship during his junior year after establishing himself as one of the elite runners in the conference in 2001. Earned all-conference honors by placing fifth at the MVC Championships (25:07 in 8K) and had four top-five finishes in five meets overall. Had season-best 8K time in his only non top-five finish, placing 12th at the highly competitive Illinois Invitational with a time of 24:34. Placed first at the Saluki Fast Start Open (20:11 in 6K), his first-ever meet at SIU. Also one of SIU's top distance runners on the track and field team.

Background: Two-time Israeli champion in the 800 meter run, and one-time champion in the 1,500m.

Personal:Son of Ozct and Kolct Giat. Majoring in electrical engineering.

2001 Results: 1st at Saluki Fast Start Open (20:11 in 6K); 12th at Illinois Invitational (24:34 in 8K); 3rd at Saluki Invitational (24:57 in 8K); 4th at Illinois St. Invitational (25:25 in 8K); 5th at MVC Championships (25:07 in 8K).