The marathon runner Tsegaye Kebede began his journey in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia, where he supported his family by herding livestock and selling firewood. Born on 15 January 1987, he eventually transitioned from a childhood of rural labor to becoming a prominent figure in international long-distance athletics through consistent competition and rigorous training.
Early Development and Athletics Entry
Raised in the village of Gerar Berak, Kebede pursued his primary education at Jima Senbate school in Sendafa town. He started running at eight years old, balancing school with daily work to earn approximately 2.50 Ethiopian birr. In 2006, after competing in an Addis Ababa half marathon, he joined the coaching group of Getaneh Tessema. He quickly established his talent, placing behind Deriba Merga during a 10 km time trial. Soon after, he secured a victory at the Abebe Bikila International Marathon, which facilitated his move into overseas competition.
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Kebede debuted internationally at the 2007 Amsterdam Marathon, finishing eighth with a time of 2:08:16. His rapid professional growth led to his selection for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, where he finished the marathon in third place. That same year, he won the Paris Marathon and the Fukuoka International Marathon, setting a course record of 2:06:10 in the latter, which stood as the fastest marathon time on Japanese soil at the time.
Career Milestones
Throughout 2009 and 2010, Kebede maintained elite status by securing second place at the 2009 London Marathon and a third-place finish at the World Championships in Athletics. He lowered his personal best to 2:05:18 by winning his second Fukuoka title in 2009. In 2012, he achieved a course record of 2:04:38 at the Chicago Marathon, and in 2013, he completed the London Marathon in 2:06:04.
Fast facts
- Born: 15 January 1987
- Birthplace: Oromia Region, Ethiopia
- Primary Education: Jima Senbate school
- Professional debut: 2007 Amsterdam Marathon
- Notable 2008 result: 3rd place in Beijing Olympics marathon
- Personal best marathon: 2:04:38
- Occupations: Marathon runner, athletics competitor
Questions readers ask
What was Tsegaye Kebede's professional start?
He entered his first international race at the 2007 Amsterdam Marathon, finishing eighth with a time of 2:08:16.
How did he perform at the 2008 Beijing Olympics?
He placed third in the men's marathon, finishing after passing teammate Deriba Merga in the final 400 metres.
