aqumada

When I first arrived in Europe and saw for myself its level of development, I felt that Ethiopia would never catch up with the rich nations. The contrast with home was so stark, it was frustrating. At the time, I wrote a poem that crystallised this feeling. Nearly two decades on, I have not found a single good reason to revise my pessimistic prognosis. However, as I leave you with the said poem, it is with the hope that you might find a reason to disagree with me.

   Gissu. 

 

The last thing we want to see in the middle of our millennium celebration is poor people roaming through the streets of our beautiful capital city. Thankfully, the ever thoughtful government of ours has come up with a brilliant plan to deport those it believes are the poorest of the poor and do not deserve to be part of the celebration.

The same brilliant guys have also come up with the idea to postpone the Great Ethiopian Run.

It had to be one of the best 10k races ever. With two laps to go, Kenenisa looked as if he was going to lose his dominance of the 10k event as Seleshi Sihene and the Kenyan, Matharthi were starting to leave him behind.  Kenenisa kept his cool and overtook the Kenyan as Seleshi started a desperate kick for the gold. I found myself cheering for the underdog, Seleshi who many times had come second to Kenenisa. With 100 meters to go, Kenenisa showed an amazing change of speed to chase down Seleshi and overtake him. As soon I noticed how fast Kenenisa's legs started to turn (wow), I knew he would overtake Seleshi. I really hope the Ethiopian athletics federation promotes Seleshi to the starting line up of the 5k. He deserves another chance for a gold medal.

Tirunesh makes me so proud. Injury? Humidity? Falling down? Pfffff…. Nothing can stop this beautiful woman. She out sprinted Elvan (Hewan) to win the gold in the 10k for Ethiopia. She is just ...beqa ... I love her. I admit! 

Saturday 8:50 am EST: Women's 10k (Featuring Tirunesh)

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