Dubai: Organisers of the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon have paid tribute to three-time winner Haile Gebrselassie following the Ethiopian legend’s retirement from competitive running at the age of 42 this week.
The double Olympic gold medallist made his Dubai debut in 2008, winning in 2hr 4min 53sec — at the time the second fastest in history — before going on to win again in 2009 (2:05.29) and 2010 (2:06.09).
He also set two records in Dubai in 2008 — the fastest 20km split in a marathon (58:10) and the fastest half marathon split time (61:27) — both of which still stand today.
After Gebrselassie, who set 27 world records during a stellar career, announced his retirement, Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon Event Director Peter Connerton said: “When Haile agreed to compete in Dubai in 2008, he took the Dubai Marathon to another level in international athletics. His profile as one of the greatest long-distance runners in history speaks for itself so to have him compete in your race is a testament to the quality of the event.
“To have Haile compete — and go on to win on three consecutive appearances — took us to a greater global audience.”
Connerton added that, despite competitive retirement, Gebrselassie will always have a place on the start line in Dubai. “Haile is a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a great friend of the Dubai Marathon. We wish him well in his retirement and will be happy to welcome him back to Dubai any time in the future.”
