Abebe Bikila: The Barefoot Marathon Legend
Many people know the famous story of Abebe Bikila, the Ethiopian marathon runner who won the 1960 Rome Olympic Games running barefoot.
But fewer know why he ran without shoes or the events that led to his amazing victory—a race he wasn’t even supposed to join.
Let’s start from the beginning.
Unexpected Call to Compete
The Ethiopian national team originally had four runners. However, just before the team left for Rome, one of them got injured. Abebe, who was Emperor Haile Selassie’s personal bodyguard, was called to replace the injured runner. The team’s Swedish coach wasn’t sure about including Abebe. He believed it would be better to compete with only three strong athletes rather than rush to add a less experienced one. However, Emperor Selassie insisted that Abebe join the team.
So, Abebe traveled to Rome with the rest of the Ethiopian team.
Trouble with Shoes
Once in Rome, Abebe trained with the shoes provided by the event’s sponsor. Unfortunately, they didn’t fit well. He soon developed painful blisters on his feet. To avoid more problems, he made a surprising decision: he would run the marathon barefoot.
The Race Plan
On race day, Abebe’s coach gave him a clear job: stay close to Rhadi Ben Abdesselam, a top Moroccan runner who was the race favorite. Abebe was supposed to follow Rhadi until the halfway point. This would help set a good pace for the other Ethiopian runners, who would then take over and try to win. Without realizing it, Abebe’s role was similar to what today’s marathons call a “pace-setter” or “rabbit.”
The Confusion with Bib Numbers
Rhadi was supposed to wear bib number 26, but on race day, he wore number 185 instead. This change confused Abebe. Throughout the race, he kept looking around for number 26, thinking Rhadi was ahead of him. Worried that he had fallen behind, Abebe pushed himself to run faster. In reality, Rhadi was running right beside him.
The Final Stretch
The two runners stayed together until the final kilometer. Then, Abebe made his move. He picked up the pace, running faster and faster. His strong finish led him to victory with a new world record: 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 16 seconds.
Surprising Finish
The most amazing part of the story? When Abebe crossed the finish line, he wasn’t celebrating. He still believed that number 26 had beaten him. He felt disappointed, thinking he had failed his mission. Instead of cheering, he seemed ready to apologize. Only later did he realize that he had won the race.
The Legacy of Abebe Bikila
Abebe’s barefoot victory made history. It showed the world his incredible strength, determination, and willpower. He became the first African athlete to win an Olympic gold medal. His story inspired countless people, proving that with hard work and focus, amazing things are possible—even against the odds.
This unforgettable race wasn’t just about winning a medal. It was a symbol of overcoming challenges and believing in yourself, no matter the circumstances.
FAQ: Abebe Bikila’s Barefoot Marathon Victory
1. Who was Abebe Bikila?
Abebe Bikila was an Ethiopian marathon runner famous for winning the 1960 Rome Olympic Marathon barefoot. He was also the first African athlete to win an Olympic gold medal.
2. Why did Abebe Bikila run barefoot?
He ran barefoot because the shoes provided by the event’s sponsor didn’t fit well and caused painful blisters during training. To avoid further discomfort, he decided to race without them.
3. Was Abebe originally part of the Ethiopian Olympic team?
No, he was not initially on the team. He replaced an injured runner shortly before the team left for Rome. His inclusion was insisted upon by Emperor Haile Selassie.
4. What role did Abebe play in the race strategy?
Abebe’s coach asked him to follow the race favorite, Rhadi Ben Abdesselam, until halfway through the marathon. His job was to set a good pace for his teammates, similar to a “rabbit” or “pace-setter” in modern marathons.
5. Why was Abebe confused during the race?
Rhadi was supposed to wear bib number 26, but he wore number 185 instead. Abebe kept looking for number 26, thinking Rhadi was ahead of him, which pushed him to run faster.
6. How did Abebe win the race?
Abebe and Rhadi ran side by side until the last kilometer. Then, Abebe increased his speed and pulled ahead, winning the race with a new world record time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 16 seconds.
7. Did Abebe know he had won the race?
No, he believed number 26 had finished ahead of him. When he crossed the finish line, he felt disappointed, thinking he hadn’t completed his mission. He only realized later that he had won.
8. What made Abebe’s victory historic?
His win was significant because he was the first African to win an Olympic gold medal. His barefoot victory symbolized strength, resilience, and determination, inspiring people worldwide.
9. What is Abebe Bikila’s legacy?
Abebe’s story continues to inspire athletes and non-athletes alike. He demonstrated that with courage, hard work, and focus, you can overcome any challenge. His victory remains a powerful symbol of perseverance.
10. Did Abebe Bikila run in other Olympics?
Yes, he competed in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and won another gold medal, this time wearing shoes. He became the first athlete to win two Olympic marathons.