Great Ethiopian Run 2024: A Spectacular Celebration of Culture, History & Athleticism

By Girma Mirgisa

The 24th edition of the Great Ethiopian Run International 10-Kilometer Road Race took place  in Addis Ababa yesterday. Ethiopia’s President, Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa City Mayor, Adenach Abiebie, legendary athlete and founder of the Great Ethiopian Run, Haile Gebrselassie, and Kenyan marathon world record holder, Ruth Chepngetich were among the distinguished guests and personalities that attended the event.

The Great Ethiopian Run is more than just a race; it is a vibrant celebration of movement, spirit, and heritage, where the pulse of thousands of runners beats in harmony with the rhythm of Ethiopia’s storied past. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Addis Ababa, the highland capital, this iconic 10-Kilometer race founded by the legendary Haile Gebrselassie in 2001 has blossomed into a beacon of athletic tourism, drawing participants from around the globe, and a powerful force in shaping Ethiopia’s global athletic identity. It has also played a pivotal role in image building, both for Ethiopia as a country and for the global perception of its sport  heritages. Beyond the competition, it is a living tribute to the country's legacy of endurance, resilience, and unmatched sporting excellence.

This year’s Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International provides a special opportunity to showcase Ethiopia as the ‘Land of Origins’ and a nation renowned for its legendary athletes. It was nothing short of spectacular, marking a milestone event that combined world-class athleticism, cultural celebration, and global unity. This year’s race held extra significance as it celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Lucy's Discovery, a pivotal moment in human history that connects Ethiopia’s rich heritage with the modern world. As the largest race in Africa, this iconic event attracted an impressive 50,000 participants including from across the globe, converging in the heart of Addis Ababa to run through the vibrant streets of the Ethiopian capital.

As the 50th anniversary of Lucy’s discovery took center stage, so too did the achievements of Ethiopia’s athletes, both past and present. The race showcased the country’s potential not only as a global hub for athletics but as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of runners. The Great Ethiopian Run serves as a platform for fostering young talent, promoting fitness, and reinforcing Ethiopia’s place as a leader in the world of long-distance running.

Unforgettable Memories

For many, the race was more than just a test of endurance; it was an opportunity to create lasting memories. The streets of Addis Ababa, with its outstanding renovations carried out through the ongoing corridor development provided participants with their blend of history, culture, and natural beauty of the city.  Spectators lined the course, waving flags, playing traditional Ethiopian music, and offering encouragement to participants, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie.

Alongside the race itself, the Great Ethiopian Run 2024 featured cultural exhibitions, performances, and events that showcased Ethiopia's diverse traditions. From traditional dances to local cuisine, the celebrations allowed participants and visitors alike to immerse themselves in Ethiopia’s rich heritage and learn about the country’s deep-rooted connection to the world of sports.

Athletic Tourism: Running Toward a New Horizon

In the world of athletics, Ethiopia is a giant, a land that has birthed legends whose names echo through the annals of running history: Haile Gebrselassie, Kenenisa Bekele, Tirunesh Dibaba, among others. These are not just athletes—they are symbols of human perseverance and grace, and they embody a deep, innate connection to the land. The Great Ethiopian Run, a gathering of both local and international runners, is a living tribute to this connection. For many, participating in the race is a pilgrimage, an opportunity to lace up shoes on the same soil that has nurtured the world’s most celebrated distance runners.

Athletic tourism, a growing and vital sector, draws travelers to Ethiopia not just for the race, but for the chance to run alongside champions and witness firsthand the culture that has cultivated them. Runners from all over the world come to Addis Ababa, seeking to experience the magic of Ethiopia’s highlands—where the thin air and breathtaking landscapes forge champions. But beyond the race itself, the journey is one of discovery. 

For tourists, the event is a window into a world where athletics is not merely a sport, but a way of life. Visitors immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Ethiopian culture, tasting the flavors of traditional coffee, hearing the melodies of folk music, and feeling the warmth of a people whose joy in running extends beyond competition to become a celebration of life itself.

In General, as it continues to attract runners from around the globe, the Great Ethiopian Run propels athletic tourism to new heights and solidifies Ethiopia's reputation as a cradle of athletic excellence. Through this annual race, Ethiopia tells a story of resilience, unity, and strength a story that the world is eager to hear, witness, and join. The race is more than an event it is a journey, a celebration, and a statement to the world that Ethiopia’s heart beats in every stride, every breath, and every step forward.