At the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, Abebe Bikila, a relatively unknown runner from Ethiopia, stunned the world.
Running the marathon entirely barefoot, he not only clinched the gold medal but also set a new world record, etching his name into sporting history.
Running Barefoot by Necessity
When Abebe Bikila arrived in Rome for the 1960 Olympics, he had no suitable running shoes and boldly chose to run the marathon barefoot, just as he had trained.
A mix-up with bib numbers caused him to mistakenly watch for another competitor while his real rival, Rhadi Ben Abdesselam, was running right beside him.
In a dramatic nighttime race through the streets of Rome, Bikila and Rhadi stayed neck and neck until the final 500 metres, when Bikila surged ahead to claim victory.
Bikila’s triumph was more than an athletic victory: it was a moment of pride for Ethiopia and a turning point for African sport.
His barefoot run symbolised the rise of athletes from the continent on the global stage, breaking stereotypes and inspiring generations.
Defending the Title in Tokyo
Four years later, at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Bikila achieved the unthinkable again. This time wearing shoes, he defended his title, becoming the first man ever to win consecutive Olympic marathon golds.
A Lasting Legacy
His legacy remains not only in his records but in the spirit of determination and dignity he brought to the marathon.
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