Ethiopian athletes: Running beyond poverty

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Source: CCTV.com | 08-23-2008 10:24

In longer distance running events in the Beijing Games, Ethiopian athletes have won three gold medals, one silver and one bronze. And since Ethiopians joined the Olympic Games in 1956, they have collected a total of 14 gold medals, 5 silver and 12 bronze. All of the medals were won in long-distance running competition. Michael Manning takes a look at how its possible for so many world-class Olympian runners are able to come from an Eastern African country that has been plagued by the challenges of poverty.

In longer distance running events in the Beijing Games,  Ethiopian athletes have won three gold medals, one silver  and one bronze.

Ethiopia is located in the high plateaus of Eastern Africa, -- which is quite suitable for long distance running training.

Every morning, in the Millennium Square in the nation's capital Addis Ababa, many young men do long-run training.

Ethiopia has long been troubled by droughts, poverty and war. But these challenges do not prevent its athletes from doing what they love -- running.

Tirunesh Dibaba has won two gold medals at the Beijing Olympics in the Women's 5,000 meter and the 10,000 meter events. But in the past, she had to join competition without running shoes.. due to a lack of money.

Stories like these have encouraged thousands of Ethiopian youngsters to participate in long distance running.

One Ethiopian long run lover said, "I started to practice long run two years ago, concentrating on 1500 meters and 800 meters. I like this sport very much, and I dreamed that one day I could join the Games presenting my country. "

There are 26 bases to train the long-run athletes in in Ethiopia. The country has grown into a strong African competitor in Olympic Games.

Long distance running has brought Ethiopians not only joy, but also inspiration and courage to overcome the challenges of poverty.

Editor:Meng Rui