Ethiopia’s capital pulsed with renewed athletic fervour on Sunday as 55,000 competitors took to the streets for the 25th edition of the Great Ethiopian Run, the country’s largest to date and now recognised as Africa’s premier road race.
Participants from 24 countries joined the 10-kilometre spectacle, themed “A Nation in 10 Kilometers,” cementing its growing international appeal. Ethiopia’s rising stars shone brightly, with Yismaw Dillu taking the men’s title in 28:25 and Melknat Wudu winning the women’s race in 32:10. Both athletes underscored the event’s role in sharpening emerging talent and fuelling ambitions on the world stage.
Race founder and Olympic legend Haile Gebrselassie celebrated the event’s evolution from its 2001 beginnings into a global athletics showcase, recently honoured as part of World Athletics heritage. He affirmed that the race demonstrates Ethiopia’s readiness to host major international competitions, including future Diamond League events. As runners and supporters filled Addis Ababa with colour, energy and hope, the race reaffirmed Ethiopia’s storied legacy in distance running and its commitment to nurturing the next generation of champions.