Addis Ababa ,November 20/2023(ENA)፦ The Great Ethiopian Run 2023, held in the vibrant capital of Addis Ababa on November 19, 2023, drawing over 45,000 participants, was a beacon of athletic excellence, economic empowerment, and international camaraderie, legendary World athletics figures and an ambassador stated. Sunday's race, which attracted participants from several countries and international institutions, garnered praise from prominent figures in the world of sports and diplomacy, highlighting its multifaceted impact on Ethiopia and beyond. Ethiopian athletics legend Haile Gebreselasie hailed the Great Ethiopian Run which attracts people from all walks of life as a crucial catalyst for the growth and development of athletics and the economy in Ethiopia. According to him, many Ethiopians, embassies, NGOs, and people from other international institutions participated in the race. "The event attracts investment for our country. When over 45,000 people run here, it shows how Ethiopia is capable to organizing such a race in Addis Ababa and also attracts foreigners to run or visit as tourists," Haile said. "But I see its importance more in relation to the athletes. We will use the race to develop our athletics,” he underscored. Thus, the Great Ethiopian Run is a lifeline for athletics, tourism, investment, and the economy in Ethiopia, he stressed. Haile believes the Great Ethiopian Run in collaboration with government institutions have the capabilities to organize world-class athletics events. "We are perfect organizers. We can host global athletics events." British TV commentator on athletics Tim Hutchings, impressed by the professional organization and scale of the event, echoed Haile's sentiments on its importance to athletics in the country and beyond.   “I cannot believe how big it is. It is huge, it is very big, and it is well organized, great racing. I love it. I am learning so much," Hutchings said. "And I love Addis. I cannot believe what a great city it is.” He recommended African countries to take a lesson on how to organize such big athletics events successfully. “The quality of organization shows Africa how to put on a race. Other countries should be watching this and learning.” He noted that “for the athletes it is great. Many young athletes can come here and get a chance to be special...It is wonderful that you can find new names in this race.” The winner of the men's 10KM is, for instance, a new name who needs professional coach, manager and sponsor to flourish, and this race has helped him be known, he pointed out. South African long-distance runner Elana Meyer, who was a guest, commended its role in promoting athletics and economic development.   “I enjoyed watching the elite race. It is the biggest in the world. To see 200 women, 200 men starting in the elite race is very difficult,” she said. “It is a very impressive race to see such a strong elite field but then 45,000 participants that came out today to celebrate for Ethiopia. It is unbelievable. I have never been to an event like this and to witness it in my own continent is very special.” People from all over the world should come to experience the race in Ethiopia, the heart of Africa’s run, she noted. “This is absolutely world-class event and people all over the world should come and run it because almost the heart of Africa of running is in East Africa.” She added that the story of this race and Ethiopia have to be told to the world accurately to attract foreign participants and tourists. “Not enough people around the world know about this race because in South Africa I did not realize how big this race was.” Ethiopia is almost where the best runners in the world came from, she stressed. “To attract more people, you need to tell the story.” Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia Agostino Palese, who participated in the race, said the event show marvelous events that align with global issues can be organized in Ethiopia.   “It is a good event that could show that in Ethiopia you could organize marvelous events that could cooperate with any event in the rest of the world. It is a very nice day. A lot of people enjoyed a nice race.” The ambassador observed that the race is crucial for Ethiopia’s image, economy, and tourism. “It is a good image for Ethiopia…it is nice even for the economy, for tourism, and for attracting people to Ethiopia,” he added. Besides its sport benefits, the race is a catalyst for economic development and international cooperation.  

Addis Ababa ,November 19/2023(ENA)-Tens of thousands of people have gathered at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa today for the 10-kilometre Great Ethiopian Run, the largest road race in Africa. Today, the streets of the capital city are filled with the energy and excitement of the Great Ethiopian Run which started early morning and attracted more than 45,000 participants from Ethiopia, Africa and all over the world.   The runners, including elite athletes, recreational runners, and walkers, made their way through the city's vibrant asphalt streets, cheered on by thousands of spectators. This year's race is particularly significant as it marks the 23rd anniversary of the Great Ethiopian Run. The event was founded in 2001 by renowned world-class Ethiopian Athlete Haile Gebrselassie to promote running as a healthy and accessible activity for all Ethiopians. The Great Ethiopian Run has since grown to become a global phenomenon, attracting participants from many countries. It is also a major economic boost for Addis Ababa and the country generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. The Great Ethiopian Run is more than just a race; it is a celebration of Ethiopian culture and unity. It has been contributing a lot in maintaining and promoting peace and unity among Ethiopians.   The event brings together people from all walks of life to share a common goal: to finish the race and celebrate the joy of running. As the runners crossed the finish line today, they were greeted with cheers and applause from the crowd. The atmosphere was one of pure joy and celebration. The Great Ethiopian Run is a testament to the power of sport to unite people and promote positive change.  

Addis Ababa, September 24/2023 (ENA)-Ethiopia's Athlete Tigist Assefa obliterates women's marathon world record at the Berlin Marathon by clocking 2:11:53 to finish the race. The 29-year-old Athlete ran a staggering 2:11:53 to take over two minutes off Brigid Kosgei’s world record of 2:14:04 from 2019. In her first race of 2023 and only her third marathon ever, Tigist Assefa charged to a massive lead and didn’t look back. Assefa went out aggressively, separating herself from the pack after 15K and only continued to grow her lead. Sheila Chepkirui of Kenya ended up second in 2:17:49, followed by Tanzanian Magdalena Shauri in 2:18:41. It is to be recalled that Assefa's winning time is the 13th world record to be set in Berlin, where she won last year in 2:15.37. In men's Berlin Marathon, Kenyan athlete Eliud Kepchoge finished first, while Ethiopian athlete Tadese Takele finished third. Winning the Berlin Marathon for a record fifth time in a time of 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 42 seconds confirms Kepchoge's status as the Greatest of All Time, it was learned.    

Addis Ababa, August 29/2023(ENA) The Ethiopian athletics delegation has received a hero's welcome upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport early this morning. The team, which registered an impressive results at the 19th World Athletics Championships, was welcomed by senior government officials including Culture and Sport Minister, Kejela Merdasa, Foreign Affairs State Minister, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, Women and Social Affairs Minister, Ergoge Tesfaye and members of the athletics community. The Ethiopian athletics team returned home after winning two gold, four silver, and three bronze medals at the 19th World Athletics Championship that took place in Budapest, Hungary, from 19–27 August 2023. Ethiopia has finished the championship ranked 6th at global level and 2nd in Africa. The team will travel through the main streets of Addis Ababa to express their joy with the residents of the capital.  

Addis Ababa, August 26/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed congratulated Ethiopian athletes who claim gold and silver in the women’s marathon at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023. “Congratulations again to our female athletes at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 who claim gold and silver in the women’s marathon. Together we are destined to achieve many more great feats!”, Abiy twitted. Amane Beriso and Gotytom Gebreslase won Gold and Silver respectively at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023. Amane Beriso snached gold medal in women's marathon in 2:24:23 while Gotytom Gebreslase won silver medal in 2:24:34.    

Addis Ababa, August 21/2023 (ENA) IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu has expressed happiness over the achievements of the exceptional athletes from member states for their outstanding performance at the World Athletics. “I am Delighted with the achievements of the exceptional athletes from IGAD member states for their outstanding performance at the World Athletics as Championship in Budapest,” the executive secretary twitted. Workneh added: “Their determination, resilience, and sportsmanship are an inspiration, and united us in celebrations across the region.” Recall athletes from the IGAD region countries including Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda are achieving outstanding victories at World Athletics Championship which is underway in Budapest, Hungary. Ethiopian athletes made victory on Saturday by winning Gold, Silver and Bronze in the 10,000 meters Women race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, it was learned. Ugandan Athlete Joshua Cheptegei also clinched gold in the 10,000m meters race yesterday and Kenya's Daniel Simiu finished second. While the bronze medal went to Solomon Barega of Ethiopia.  

Addis Ababa, August 20/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has congratulated Ethiopian athletes who once again raised the flag high in the 10,000 meter race at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary. “Proud daughters of Ethiopia raise the flag once again at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest. A sweep for Ethiopia in the women’s 10,000m!” Abiy twitted. Ethiopian athletes made victory by winning Gold, Silver and Bronze in 10,000 meters Women race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest last night. Accordingly, Gudaf Tsegay, Letesenbet Gidey and Ejgayehu Taye won Gold, Silver and Bronze respectively.    

Addis Ababa July 23/2023(ENA):- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has today unveiled a memorial plaque in the street of Rome in honor of the heroic Ethiopian athlete Abebe Bikila. The premier is in Italy attending the International Conference on Development and Migration being underway in Rome.   On the side line of the conference, the premier unveiled a memorial plaque in the street of Rome in honor of the late athlete Abebe Bikila. Abebe was a marathon runner who won a gold medal while running barefoot at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. Abebe was also the first Olympic gold medalist both for Ethiopia and Africa. PM Abiy stated that Abebe Bikila is a source of national pride and a national gem. He is a unique athlete that raised the profile of Ethiopia to prominence on the world stage and opened the door for many African athletes. “He remains a unique symbol of endurance and invincibility. The Italian city of Rome has a street named after him. Early this morning, we unveiled a memorial plaque in his honor,” the premier said in a message he posted on face-book page.  

Addis Ababa June 10/2023(ENA):- Ethiopia's Lamecha Girma smashed a new world record clocking 7: 52.11 in the men's 3,000m steeplechase at the Diamond League meeting in Paris on Friday. Lamecha, 22, twice a silver medallist at the world championships and once at the Olympics, clocked 7:52.11, shattering the previous best of 7:53.63 set by Kenyan-born Qatari Saif Saaeed Shaheen in Brussels in 2004. "I'm feeling so happy. Happy and very proud, I felt so fast during the race, so confident. The world record is not a surprise; I planned to beat it tonight in Paris. It's a result of a full determination," AFP quoted Lamecha as saying. Lamecha has completely dominated the race, finishing 17 seconds ahead of second-placed Ryuji Miura, who set a new Japanese record of 8:09.91. The official world records in the 3000 meters Steeplechase are currently held by the Ethiopian Lamecha Girma at 7:52.11 for men and Beatrice Chepkoech of Kenya at 8:44.32 for women.

Addis Ababa April 2/ 2023 (ENA) Ethiopia's Abeje Ayana won the men's race at the Paris Marathon on Sunday in his first competitive run over the distance. The 20-year-old Ayana won with a time of two hours, seven minutes and 15 seconds, 20 seconds ahead of compatriot and pre-race favourite Guye Adola with Kenya's Josphat Boit a further five seconds back in third. After clocking 59:39 in a half marathon in Poznan, Poland in 2021, Ayana was one of the men to watch on a grey, windy morning in the French capital, Reuters reported.  

Addis Ababa March 29/2023/ENA/ President Sahle-Work Zewde has received a delegation led by World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Witold Bonka today, according to the Office of the President. The discussion centered on the conditions under which Ethiopia and the World Anti-Doping Agency can work closely in anti-doping control and investigation, and how the organization can provide technical support, it was learned.   During the discussion, Sahle-Work said that Ethiopia has a long history in athletics and is known in the world since athlete Abebe Bikila won marathon in Rome. She finally thanked the World Anti-Doping Agency for its technical support in anti-doping control.  

Addis Ababa November 20/2022/ENA/ The 22nd edition of Great Ethiopian Run was held today in Addis Ababa with participation of more than 40,000 people. President Sahle-Work Zewde, Addis Ababa Mayor, Adanech Abiebie, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Kejela Merdasa and other senior government officials as well guests including renowned Kenyan athletes and tourists attended the 10 killo Meter annual street race held at Meskel Square in the capital. The Great Ethiopian Run is the first biggest event in Africa and sixth in the world’s international street races. The Great Ethiopian Run is believed to be one of the most important events to promoting tourism in Ethiopia. It was indicated that the Great Ethiopian Run has successfully conducted more than 100 races in various cities in the country over the past years. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.

Addis Ababa October 27,2022 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated a newly rebuilt sport center in Arada sub-city of Addis Ababa today. The previous "15 Meda" sport center was not conducive for physical activities. Therefore, Prime Minister Abiy took the initiative to build a new the sport center with the participation of stakeholders, it was learned. The renovated center was inaugurated today and will provide its previous services. The reconstruction of the sport center is part of the winter volunteer project, it was learned. 

Addis Ababa July 29/2022/ENA/ The Addis Ababa City Administration held a Thanksgiving ceremony for the Ethiopian athletics team that registered stunning victory at the Oregon World Athletics Championship 2022. The athletic team, which stood second after the US in the medal list, was earlier given warm reception by President Sahle-Work Zewde at the National Palace and the outstanding members awarded. The City Administration Council of Addis Ababa also awarded 10 million Birr prize in total to the athletes who participated in the competition. In addition, the athletes who won gold, silver and bronze medals were given 500 to 250 square meters of land based on their results. Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Adanech Abebie said that the athletes have once again raised Ethiopia's honor in the world arena. "History testifies that we Ethiopians are people who do not surrender to defeat, and challenges make us stronger," she stressed. According to her, the athletes should be honored for their contribution in making the country's flag fly high in the world championships. Ethiopian Athletics Federation President, Commander Derartu Tulu said she was happy with the reception given to the athletes, stating that "the most precious gift is morale and respect we are given by the people." The Thanksgiving program was held under the theme: "We thank you for raising our flag in the world arena.” Culture and Sports Minister Kejela Merdasa, former famous athletes and various government officials attended the ceremony.

Addis Ababa July 28/2022/ENA/ The results registered at the World Athletics Championship have filled the hearts of Ethiopians with joy and help to sustain Ethiopia's march towards development, Ethiopian Athletics Team Leader at the 18th World Athletics Championships said. President Sahle-Work Zewde welcomed members of the Ethiopian Athletic Team at the National Palace today. During the occasion, the team leader Tefera Molla said he is proud and happy about the victory achieved by the Ethiopian athletes. He also lauded Ethiopians for standing with the athletics team. Tefera recalled the repeated victories achieved by former Ethiopian athletes such as Abebe Bikila, Mamo Wolde, Miruts Yifter, Haile Gebre Sellasie, and Derartu Tulu, among others. The team leader stated that the results obtained in the Oregon World Athletics Championship will enable the country to continue the journey to prosperity. According to him, the victory was achieved due to the rigorous preparations, including the performance and evaluation done on a daily basis, as well as the strict discipline in recruitment. Ethiopia ranked second in the world after United States of America and first in Africa, Tefera noted, adding that the result recorded in the athletics arena proved that there is no force that can stop Ethiopia's journey towards prosperity.

Addis Ababa July 28/2022/ENA/ Ethiopian Athletics team is celebrating its outstanding victory at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Oregon with residents of Addis Ababa by touring the streets of the capital. The athletics team has been given a hero’s welcome upon arrival to Addis Ababa on Wednesday after a remarkable performance at the world athletics championships. A national award and recognition ceremony is also expected to take place at the National Palace later today. In his latest message, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said that the shining victories the Ethiopian athletes have made at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Oregon, USA that Ethiopians have crowned and triumphed at the global sport stage resisting all the internal and external challenges. Praising Ethiopian athletes for raising the national flag at the global stage, Abiy said “we have plenty of reasons to be grateful as a nation.” It is to be recalled that the Ethiopian athletics team achieved historic results that attracted the eyes of the world at the 2022 World Athletics Championships. Ethiopia had the most gold medals from among African countries and ranked second in the world by winning 4 Gold, 4 Silver and 2 Bronze at the championships. In his recent interview with ENA, the world-renowned athlete Haile Gebre Selassie described the victory at the 18th Edition of the World Athletics Championship as a manifestation of a resilient nation and unity.

Addis Ababa July 28/2022/ENA/ The Ethiopian athletics delegation which finished second with remarkable achievement at the 18th World Athletics Championships has received a warm welcome upon arrival at Bole International Airport last night. Ethiopia finished the 2022 World Athletics Championships by winning 4 Gold, 4 Silver and 2 Bronze. The Ethiopian athletics delegation that had registered outstanding results at the 18th World Athletics Championships, held in Oregon, USA arrived in Addis Ababa. Upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, the team was welcomed by senior government officials and members of the athletics community. The Ethiopian Athletics Team will receive a grand reception today by the residents of the capital and senior government officials. The team will conduct tours across the main streets of the capital in an open bus as part of the welcoming ceremony. There will be also awarding ceremony at the National Palace to grant recognition to the team for its remarkable achievements that brought Ethiopia front at this global event.

Addis Ababa May 25/2022/ENA /The World Cup Trophy was presented to President Sahle-Work Zewde at the Palace soon after its arrival. FIFA World Cup Trophy has arrived in Addis Ababa on Tuesday ahead of the 2022 World Cup to be held in Qatar in 2022. Ethiopia has been the first destination of nine African countries which are included in the tour. In total 51 countries will be visited. “Football can be a very strong tool in bringing people together, to work for the same goal, to abide by the rules of the game and show respect to one another, to learn to share space. It has a strong unifying power.” the President said during the occasion. She added “Since the trophy can only be touched by few people, among them Heads of States, I feel privileged to be given the opportunity on behalf of all Ethiopians before it is displayed at our iconic Meskel Square. I have a special thought for those who will not be able to see it.” The trophy weighs 6.1kg is made of 18 carats gold.

March 21/2022 /ENA/ Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has congratulated Ethiopians for the astonishing results registered by the Ethiopian athletes in the 18th World Athletics Indoor Championships held in Belgrade, Serbia.  “I express my delight that Ethiopia finished first in the 18th World Athletics Indoor Championships in Belgrade, Serbia! Congratulations!” Abiy said. The 18th World Athletics Indoor Championships was held from 18 to 20 March, 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia. Ethiopia has secured 4 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze medals at 18th World Indoor Championship Sweep in Belgrade. Ethiopia finished first in the 18th World Athletics Indoor Championships. An Ethiopian Gudaf Tsegay clean sweep of the medals in the women’s 1,500m final, the first by any nation in any event in world indoor history, with a gun-to-tape victory that also eclipsed the championship record.

Addis Ababa January 23/2022/ENA/ Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said that the Great Ethiopian Run has been contributing a lot in maintaining and promoting peace and unity among Ethiopians over the last 20 years. The Premier made the remake in a statement issued on his Face-book in connection with the 21 round of the Great Ethiopian Run that was held on Sunday in the capital Addis Ababa. Ethiopia is marching to ensure civilization, peace, tolerance, unity and reconciliation by sidestepping poverty, conflict and war, Abiy said. “Since we are competing with the world, we have to prepare ourselves to be competent without spending time,” he added. Prime Minister Abiy stated that the Great Ethiopian Run is playing a great role in promoting unity and peace among Ethiopians by bringing thousands of Ethiopians to run for peace, love and partnership over the last 20 years. The event has been creating harmony among all Ethiopians irrespective of their religion and ethnic background, Abiy stated. “The Great Ethiopian Run has been bringing together citizens who could not be able to celebrate religious holidays and other ethnic based national events together." The Premier appreciated the founders of the Great Ethiopian Run particularly Athlete Haile Gebrselassie, Ethiopia's inspiration and beacon. Abiy said “Haile made Ethiopia proud at international venues. He has been exemplary to several young Ethiopian athletes. The athlete has also been model how to turn money, obtained with various efforts, in to effective investment. Haile is not only Athlete, but also a good advisor and negotiator who doesn’t tolerate when his country is belittled. Ethiopia needs millions like Haile.” The premier expressed his hope that the Great Ethiopian Run will become one of the great events that would promote Ethiopia in the regional, continental and international arenas. He pledged to provide the necessary support in this regard. PM Abiy further urged Ethiopians who have participated in the Great Ethiopian Run to let Ethiopia win and break the record on the world stage in unison just like the way they are participating together at today's event regardless of ethnicity, religion, political difference and gender. It’s been 21 years now since the 10km road race Great Ethiopian Run has been commenced attracting hundreds of thousands of Ethiopians and foreign visitors every year.