#ForbesAfricaIcons From running to school across Ethiopia’s rural highlands to becoming one of the greatest long-distance runners of all time, Haile Gebrselassie’s journey is one of endurance, determination and Olympic glory. His running career began long before the world knew his name. As a young boy, Gebrselassie covered a 20-kilometre round trip to school each day, a routine that would eventually shape his athletic destiny. His distinctive crooked left arm became a lasting reminder of those early years, when he ran with his books tucked under one arm. By the time he reached the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, Gebrselassie had already secured two world championship titles and set three world records. In the 10,000-metre final, he faced a fierce challenge from Kenyan rival Paul Tergat, trailing until the final lap before surging ahead to claim gold in an Olympic record time of 27:07.34. “I dreamed of becoming an Olympic champion since I was seven,” he told FORBES AFRICA. “I wanted to be like Miruts Yifter… that dream came true 16 years later.” Over a career spanning 25 years, Gebrselassie established himself as a generational athlete, celebrated for his last-lap heroics and remarkable ability to push through pain. His legacy extends beyond the track, inspiring generations of runners across Ethiopia, Africa and the world. Read Haile Gebrselassie’s full story in the #FORBESAFRICA15 issue. Get your digital copy here ⬇️ shop.forbesafrica.com/produc…