Date of Birth: April 18, 1973
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Biography
Haile Gebrselassie is a retired Ethiopian long-distance track and road running athlete known for his exceptional career, which includes multiple world records and Olympic medals. Born in Asella, Arsi Province, Ethiopia, Haile began running as a child, using it as a mode of transportation to and from school. His unique running style, characterized by a pronounced arm swing, is attributed to carrying his books under his arm while running. Gebrselassie gained international prominence in the early 1990s. He won his first major title at the 1992 World Junior Championships in Seoul, South Korea. Over his career, he accumulated two Olympic gold medals in the 10,000 meters at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Games, and four World Championship titles in the same event. Haile also excelled in road running, breaking the marathon world record twice, with his best time being 2:03:59, set in 2008 at the Berlin Marathon. After retiring from competitive running, he turned his attention to business and philanthropy. He owns several businesses, including hotels and a coffee plantation, and is actively involved in supporting athletic and educational initiatives in Ethiopia.
5 Interesting Facts about Haile Gebrselassie
1. Haile Gebrselassie set 27 world records throughout his career.
2. He is known for his distinctive running style, which developed from carrying his books while running to school.
3. Haile played himself in the movie “Endurance,” which chronicles his journey to winning the Olympic gold in Atlanta.
4. He is a prominent businessman in Ethiopia, owning ventures such as hotels, a cinema, and a coffee plantation.
5. Gebrselassie has been involved in numerous charitable works, including supporting education and athletics in Ethiopia.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Haile Gebrselassie
1. “When you run the marathon, you run against the distance, not against the other runners and not against the time.”
2. “I always say if the marathon is a part of your life, you will have a very good life.”
3. “I think I have learned that the best way to lift one’s self up is to help someone else.”
4. “Running gives me freedom. When I run, I escape from everything.”
5. “When you have the enthusiasm and the passion, you end up figuring how to excel.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Haile Gebrselassie has achieved an estimated net worth of $10 million.
Children
Haile Gebrselassie has four children with his wife, Alem Gebrselassie.
Relevant Links
1. [Haile Gebrselassie – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haile_Gebrselassie
