Abebe Bikila: Biography of the Amazing Ethiopian Legend
Abebe Bikila, a name synonymous with athleticism and determination, holds a significant place in sporting history. From humble beginnings in rural Ethiopia, Abebe rose to international prominence, becoming the first African to win an Olympic gold medal in long-distance running in 1960.
His remarkable journey, marked by triumphs, a tragic accident, and an enduring legacy, continues to inspire athletes and break down barriers. In this article, we delve into the extraordinary life of Abebe Bikila, exploring his Olympic triumphs, the accident that changed his path, and the lasting impact he has left behind. Join us as we uncover the essence of a true pioneer and an inspiration to all.
Early Life and Background
Abebe Bikila was born in August 7, 1932, in the tiny village of Jato, which was then a part of the Selale District of Shewa. Abebe was born to Wudinesh Beneberu and her second husband, Demissie. Abebe’s family was compelled to relocate to the outlying town of Gorro during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War (1935–1937). When that time came, Wudinesh had already wed Temtime Kefelew and divorced Abebe's father. Later, the family returned to Jato (or the neighboring Jirru), where they had a farm. Abebe used to play gena, a traditional long-distance hockey game with goalposts that could be miles apart. After relocating to Addis Ababa the previous year, he joined the 5th Infantry Regiment of the Imperial Guard around 1952. Abebe used to run every day for 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the hills of Sululta to Addis Ababa and back. He was soon identified by Swedish coach Onni Niskanen, who was being paid by the Ethiopian government to train the Imperial Guard, and he started preparing him for the marathon.
When it came to the Ethiopian Armed Forces championship in 1956, Abebe came in second place to Wami Biratu. Tim Judah, a biographer, claims that contrary to popular belief, the decision to include Abebe in the Olympics was "long planned" and not made at the last minute. On March 16, 1960, Abebe, then 27 years old, wed Yewebdar Wolde-Giorgis, then 15. Despite the fact that his mother arranged the union, Abebe was content and they remained wed for the rest of his life.
Olympic Triumph: Rome 1960 - 1964
Abebe Bikila's journey to Olympic glory reached its pinnacle at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Having won marathons in Addis Ababa just a month prior, Bikila and his teammate Abebe Wakgira were selected to compete in the prestigious event.
In preparation for the race, Bikila purchased new running shoes. However, the ill-fitting shoes caused him discomfort and blisters. Determined to overcome this obstacle, Bikila made a bold decision – he opted to run the marathon barefoot. The race took place in Rome's scorching heat, starting late in the afternoon at the foot of the Capitoline Hill staircase and finishing at night near the Arch of Constantine, outside the Colosseum. As the runners set off, Bikila found himself initially trailing behind a lead pack consisting of athletes like Arthur Keily of Great Britain, Rhadi Ben Abdesselam of Morocco, Bertie Messitt of Ireland, and Aurèle Vandendriessche of Belgium.
Over the course of the race, the lead changed hands multiple times between various competitors. Around the 25 km mark, however, Bikila and ben Abdesselam began to break away from the rest of the pack, showcasing their strength and endurance.
As the race approached its climax, with just 500 meters remaining, Bikila made his move. Sprinting towards the finish line, he left spectators in awe of his speed and determination. The Appian Way, illuminated by torches held by Italian soldiers, provided a dramatic backdrop to his victorious sprint. Abebe Bikila crossed the finish line in 2:15:16.2, securing the gold medal and smashing the world record by eight tenths of a second. Rhadi Ben Abdesselam finished closely behind, capturing the silver medal. Bikila's triumph marked the first Olympic gold medal for an African athlete in a long-distance running event.
In the aftermath of his victory, Bikila's celebration was unique. Rather than collapsing from exhaustion, he began touching his toes and running in place, indicating that he had more energy to spare. His incredible performance left spectators and fellow athletes amazed, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in the world of long-distance running. Abebe Bikila's barefoot triumph at the 1960 Rome Olympics not only elevated him to international fame but also symbolized his resilience, determination, and unconventional approach to the sport. It was a defining moment in his career and set the stage for the remarkable achievements that would follow. It was also the first of many historic moments in the Olympic that Ethiopia is known for. Abebe went back to his native country as a hero. He was welcomed by a sizable crowd, numerous dignitaries, and Brigadier-General Mengistu Neway, the Imperial Guard commander. Abebe was presented to Emperor Haile Selassie after being paraded through Addis Abeba's streets along a procession route lined with thousands of spectators.
He received the Star of Ethiopia from the Emperor and was given the title of asiraleqa (corporal). He was gifted a home and a chauffeur-driven Volkswagen Beetle because he was still learning how to drive. Abebe won the 1961 Athens Classical Marathon while running barefoot once more. This was his second and final competition without shoes.
He triumphed in the Osaka and Koice marathons that same year. Between his Olympic victories in 1960 and 1964, Abebe ran the Boston Marathon and placed fifth in 2:24:43. Only once during his competitive career did he finish an international marathon without taking first place. For 18 miles, he and fellow countryman Mamo Wolde, who came in 12th, ran together at a record pace before cold winds and Newton's hills caused both of them to fall back. Aurele Vandendriessche of Belgium won the contest in a course-record 2:18:58. In 1964, in Addis Ababa, Abebe ran in another marathon after returning to Ethiopia. He finished the race in 2:23:14.8.
Becoming a Legend: Tokyo 1964 and beyond
Despite recovering from an appendectomy just 40 days before the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Abebe Bikila was determined to defend his Olympic marathon title. This time, he wore Puma shoes for the race. Abebe steadily increased his pace and took the lead around the 20 km mark, leaving Jim Hogan of Ireland as his only remaining contender. With a comfortable lead, Abebe entered the Olympic stadium to the cheers of 75,000 spectators. He finished the race in 2:12:11.2, securing his second consecutive Olympic gold medal in the marathon.
Abebe's victory was impressive, with a lead of over four minutes ahead of the silver medalist, Basil Heatley of Great Britain. He became the first runner to successfully defend an Olympic marathon title and was celebrated as a national hero in Ethiopia. In recognition of his achievements, Abebe was promoted to the rank of metoaleqa (lieutenant) and received the Order of Menelik II. He was also awarded a Volkswagen Beetle and a house, further highlighting the nation's admiration for him. Abebe Bikila's triumph at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics solidified his status as one of the greatest marathon runners ever and continues to inspire athletes worldwide.
Challenges and Farewell to Marathon Running
In April 1965, as part of the opening ceremonies for the second season of the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair, Abebe Bikila and Mamo Wolde participated in a ceremonial half-marathon, running from Central Park to the Singer Bowl with a scroll carrying greetings from Haile Selassie. The following month, Abebe won his second Mainichi Marathon in Japan. He continued his winning streak with victories at the Zarautz and Inchon-Seoul marathons in 1966. However, in July 1967, Abebe suffered a hamstring injury during the Zarautz International Marathon, which would plague him for the rest of his career. In 1968, Abebe sought medical treatment in Germany for circulatory ailments in his legs. The German government provided him with free medical services. Despite his health challenges, Abebe joined the Ethiopian Olympic team in Asmara for training in preparation for the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. With the aim of securing a remarkable third consecutive Olympic gold medal, Abebe, along with Mamo Wolde and Gebru Merawi, participated in the Olympic marathon. Symbolically, he was issued bib number 1 for the race. However, a week before the race, Abebe developed pain in his left leg, which was later diagnosed as a fractured fibula. Doctors advised him to rest until the day of the race. Unfortunately, Abebe had to withdraw from the marathon after completing approximately 16 km (10 mi). Mamo Wolde went on to win the race.
Following his exit from the 1968 Olympics, Abebe Bikila retired from marathon running. He received a promotion to the rank of shambel (captain) upon his return to Ethiopia, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to the sport. Abebe Bikila's career from 1965 to 1968 showcased both triumphs and challenges. Despite enduring injuries and health issues, he remained a revered figure in the world of marathon running, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that would continue to inspire athletes for years to come.
Life Beyond Running and Tragic Accident
After Abebe Bikila's tragic car accident in 1969, his life took a dramatic turn. On the night of March 22, Abebe lost control of his Volkswagen Beetle, which overturned and trapped him inside. According to biographer Tim Judah, there are indications that Abebe may have been drinking on that fateful night. The exact details of the accident remain uncertain, but Abebe's account, as recorded by his daughter Tsige Abebe, suggests that he was trying to avoid a fast-oncoming car. The following morning, Abebe was freed from the wreckage and taken to the Imperial Guard hospital. The accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, making him a quadriplegic. Abebe's condition was critical, and he was transferred to Stoke Mandeville Hospital in England on March 29, where he would receive treatment for the next eight months. Despite his immobility, Abebe's spirit remained strong, and he became an inspiration to many. During his time at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Abebe began training for wheelchair-athlete archery competitions. In July, he participated in archery and table tennis at the Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Games in London.
The following year, Abebe traveled to Norway to compete in games for disabled individuals, where he surprised everyone by participating in archery, table tennis, and even cross-country sled dog racing. His determination and competitive spirit shone through as he defeated a field of sixteen competitors in the sled dog race, completing it in an impressive time of 1 hour, 16 minutes, and 17 seconds. Despite his physical limitations, Abebe's indomitable spirit continued to inspire others. In 1972, he was invited to the Munich Summer Olympics as a special guest. During the opening ceremony, Abebe received a standing ovation, a testament to his enduring legacy as a sports icon. His presence at the Olympics brought a sense of admiration and respect from athletes and spectators alike. Even Frank Shorter, the gold medalist in the marathon at the 1972 Olympics, acknowledged Abebe's remarkable achievements by shaking his hand. Tragically, Abebe Bikila's life was cut short on October 25, 1973, in Addis Ababa, at the age of 41. He passed away due to a cerebral hemorrhage, a complication related to the car accident four years earlier. Abebe's funeral was a grand affair, with an estimated 65,000 people, including Emperor Haile Selassie, attending to pay their respects. He was buried with full military honors, and his resting place can be found at Saint Joseph Church in Addis Ababa, where a bronze statue commemorates his legacy as a national hero of Ethiopia. Abebe Bikila's story is one of resilience, determination, and inspiration. Despite the tragic end to his running career, he continued to defy the odds and achieve remarkable feats in the realm of disabled sports. His legacy as a symbol of strength and courage lives on, inspiring generations to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams.
Legacy and Impact
Abebe Bikila's legacy extends far beyond his remarkable athletic achievements. His impact on Ethiopian and African athletics, as well as the global running community, is profound and enduring. Here are some key aspects of his legacy:
- Pioneering African Athlete:
- Symbol of Perseverance:
- Inspiration for Disabled Athletes:
- International Recognition:
- Enduring Inspiration:
- Commemoration and Honors:
Abebe Bikila shattered barriers and paved the way for future African athletes. As the first African to win an Olympic gold medal in a long-distance running event, he inspired generations of runners from Ethiopia and across the continent. His success demonstrated that African athletes possessed the skill, determination, and discipline to compete at the highest level of international sports.
Abebe's triumphs and his ability to overcome adversity made him an emblem of perseverance. His victory in the 1960 Olympics, running barefoot and setting a world record, symbolized the indomitable spirit and strength of the human will. This resilience was further exemplified by his determination to continue competing and achieving success in wheelchair-athlete archery competitions after his tragic car accident.
Following his accident, Abebe Bikila became an inspiration for disabled athletes worldwide. By participating in wheelchair sports and showcasing his competitive spirit, he shattered stereotypes and proved that physical limitations need not hinder one's ability to excel in sports. His involvement in disabled games and his achievements in archery and table tennis demonstrated that dedication and passion could transcend physical challenges.
Abebe's remarkable story and contributions earned him international recognition and admiration. He received numerous accolades, including invitations as a special guest to the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, where he was greeted with a standing ovation during the opening ceremony. His presence at the Olympics highlighted his global impact and the respect he commanded from athletes and spectators alike.
Even after his untimely passing, Abebe Bikila's legacy continues to inspire athletes and individuals worldwide. His story serves as a constant reminder that with determination, perseverance, and a strong will, one can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Aspiring athletes, particularly in Ethiopia, draw motivation from his achievements, striving to emulate his dedication and pursue greatness in their own athletic pursuits.
Abebe's contributions to sports and his status as a national hero have been commemorated in various ways. Plaques and statues dedicated to him can be found in Rome, where he achieved his historic Olympic victory, as well as in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. His burial site at Saint Joseph Church serves as a place of reverence and remembrance for those who admire his legacy. Abebe Bikila's impact reaches far beyond the realm of athletics. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming an Olympic champion, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his ability to inspire others have left an indelible mark on the world. He continues to be celebrated as an icon of Ethiopian and African athletics, representing the unwavering spirit of human potential and the pursuit of excellence.
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