The greatest distance runner of the 20th century — Haile Gebrselassie held 27 world records and won back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the 10,000 metres.
Haile Gebrselassie is considered by many to be the greatest distance runner in history. He held 27 world records simultaneously at the peak of his career, including both the 10,000m and marathon world records. He won the Olympic 10,000m gold at both Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000. He broke the marathon world record twice after the age of 35. He grew up running 10km to school and back every day.
He grew up running 10 kilometres to school and back every day — a foundation that many believe shaped his extraordinary running economy.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- Olympic Gold 10,000m 2x (1996 2000)
- World Champion 4x
- 27 world records