I wanted the world to know that my country, Ethiopia, has always won with determination and heroism.

I wanted the world to know that my country Ethiopia has always won with determination and heroism.

Abebe Bikila

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Abebe Bikila

Born in Jato, Ethiopia in 1932, Abebe Bikila ran the 1960 Rome Olympic marathon barefoot and won - then defended his title wearing shoes at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. He heralded the era of African distance running dominance. From Imperial Guard to Olympic champion to paraplegic after a car accident, his was a life of extraordinary fate.

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