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Abebe Bikila

Abebe Bikila

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The son of a shepherd and a native of Ethiopia, Abebe Bikila is best known for setting the world record marathon time at the Rome Olympics in 1960. Bikila’s feat is all the more impressive considering his feet; just as he had trained his entire life, in Rome, Bikila traversed 26-plus miles of cobblestone streets barefoot. By becoming the first ever Black African to win an Olympic gold medal, Bikila inspired millions and opened the door to African dominance in the sport of long distance running. 

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.