Ethiopian · Asella, Ethiopia · Born 18 April 1973Double Olympic 10000m champion, former marathon/10000m WR holder.
Haile Gebrselassie was born on 18 April 1973 in Asella, Ethiopia, and developed a distinctive, asymmetrical running style as a child from running long distances to and from school every day while carrying his schoolbooks under one arm. Gebrselassie won Olympic gold in the 10,000m at both the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Games, and captured four World Championship titles in the event, developing into one of the most decorated and beloved distance runners in the sport's history. Gebrselassie transitioned successfully to road racing, winning the Berlin Marathon four consecutive times and the Dubai Marathon three times in a row, and became the first man to break two hours and four minutes for the marathon. Gebrselassie retired as one of the most prolific record-breakers in athletics history, setting 27 world records across track and road events during his career, and has since built an extensive career as a businessman and philanthropist in Ethiopia, remaining a national hero and one of the most influential figures in the sport's history.
Long Distance Runner
How They Played
Tactical runner with devastating kick and metronomic pacing
Lasting Impact
Transformed distance running and inspired generation of athletes
Career Honours
- 1996,2000 Olympic gold 10000m
- marathon WR 2007/08
- 8x World champ
Ethiopian Athletes