Haile Gebrselassie, Ethiopian runner

Revered globally as one of the greatest long-distance runners in history, Haile Gebrselassie, whose name in Amharic is ኀይሌ ገብረ ሥላሴ (haylē gebre silassē), was born on April 18, 1973, in Ethiopia. His illustrious career saw him dominate both track and road running, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring generations of athletes worldwide. From his early days conquering tracks to his later triumphs on the marathon circuit, Gebrselassie's journey is a testament to unparalleled dedication and athletic brilliance.

A Dominant Force on Track and Road

Gebrselassie's athletic journey began with a remarkable command of track events. He secured two coveted Olympic gold medals in the demanding 10,000 metres, a feat that firmly established his legacy in the annals of Olympic history. Complementing his Olympic glory, he also clinched four World Championship titles in the same event, showcasing a consistent and unwavering dominance at the pinnacle of track and field. Beyond the outdoor stadium, Haile proved equally formidable indoors, accumulating an impressive four world titles, demonstrating his versatility across different running environments.

As his career evolved, Haile Gebrselassie gracefully transitioned from track and cross-country running to the challenging world of road racing. This transition was far from a slowdown; instead, it ushered in a new era of triumphs. He achieved an extraordinary four consecutive wins at the prestigious Berlin Marathon, a race renowned for its flat and fast course, often considered a prime location for world record attempts. Not content with just one marathon stronghold, he also secured three straight victories at the Dubai Marathon, further cementing his reputation as a formidable road runner. His versatility was undeniable, with major competition wins spanning an incredible range of distances, from the blistering 1500 metres all the way up to the grueling marathon. He even added the 2001 World Half Marathon Champion title to his extensive collection, proving his mastery over various long-distance formats.

Setting New Benchmarks: Records and Legacy

Haile Gebrselassie’s career was synonymous with breaking barriers. He redefined what was thought possible in distance running, smashing a staggering 61 Ethiopian national records across distances ranging from the 800 metres to the marathon. Globally, his impact was even more profound, as he set an incredible 27 world records during his active career. Such an astonishing collection of records undeniably places him among the very greatest distance runners ever to grace the sport, a true legend whose name is etched into history books.

The Marathon World Record Breaker

One of the most memorable moments in Gebrselassie's storied career came in September 2008. At the age of 35, an age when many athletes contemplate retirement, he once again captivated the world by winning the Berlin Marathon with an astonishing world record time of 2:03:59. This remarkable performance didn't just break the world record; it shattered his own previous best by a significant 27 seconds, a testament to his enduring power and relentless pursuit of excellence. This incredible record stood unchallenged for three years, a benchmark against which all aspiring marathoners measured themselves. Furthermore, because he was over the age of 35 at the time, this magnificent mark also stood as the Masters Age group world record for over a decade. It was eventually surpassed on September 29, 2019, by his compatriot, fellow Ethiopian running icon Kenenisa Bekele, who ran an even faster 2:01:41 at the age of 37. However, Gebrselassie's Masters record for the 10,000 metres, set way back in 2008, continues to remain unchallenged, highlighting his enduring brilliance across different distances and age categories.

Influence Beyond the Track and Personal Challenges

Beyond his athletic achievements, Haile Gebrselassie’s influence resonates deeply. His inspiring journey and success led to his recognition as one of the Top 100 most influential Africans by New African magazine in 2011, underscoring his impact not just as an athlete but as a national and continental icon. He has often been seen as an ambassador for Ethiopia, embodying resilience and determination.

However, Gebrselassie also faced personal challenges stemming from broader societal issues. During the summer of 2020, Ethiopia experienced the tragic Hachalu Hundessa riots, a period of civil unrest where businesses and properties belonging to non-Oromos were regrettably targeted by Oromo mobs. In a deeply unfortunate turn of events, Haile Gebrselassie's own hotels and resort were among the properties that suffered extensive damage, being burned during the unrest. This devastating incident not only impacted his personal ventures but also resulted in a significant loss of livelihoods, as approximately 400 employees tragically lost their jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Haile Gebrselassie's full name and origin?
Haile Gebrselassie (Amharic: ኀይሌ ገብረ ሥላሴ, haylē gebre silassē) was born on April 18, 1973, in Ethiopia. He is an Ethiopian retired long-distance track and road running athlete.
What are Haile Gebrselassie's most significant athletic achievements?
He won two Olympic gold medals and four World Championship titles in the 10,000 metres. He also achieved four consecutive wins at the Berlin Marathon, three straight wins at the Dubai Marathon, and was the 2001 World Half Marathon Champion, alongside four indoor world titles.
How many world records did Haile Gebrselassie set during his career?
Haile Gebrselassie set an astonishing 27 world records across various distances, ranging from the 800 metres to the marathon. He also broke 61 Ethiopian national records.
When did Haile Gebrselassie set his marathon world record?
He set a world record in the marathon with a time of 2:03:59 at the Berlin Marathon in September 2008, at the age of 35. This record stood for three years and also held the Masters Age group world record for an extended period.
What impact did the 2020 Hachalu Hundessa riots have on Haile Gebrselassie's businesses?
During the Hachalu Hundessa riots in the summer of 2020, businesses and properties belonging to non-Oromos were targeted. Tragically, Haile Gebrselassie's hotels and resort were among those burned, leading to approximately 400 employees losing their jobs.
Is Haile Gebrselassie still considered an active athlete?
No, Haile Gebrselassie is a retired long-distance track and road running athlete. While no longer competing professionally, his legacy and influence in the sport remain immense.