Abshero Leads Ethiopia’s Olympic Marathon Squad

He debuted with a win this year in Dubai.

With all the focus currently on Kenya’s chances to win gold in the Olympic marathon, one man may be getting overlooked: Ethiopia’s Ayele Abshero.

The 21-year-old is currently the fastest marathoner in the world this year with a blazing two hours, four minutes, and 23 seconds at this year’s Dubai Marathon.

The race was Abshero’s debut. He was the former world junior cross-country champion and is the brother of 2008 Dublin Marathon champion Tessema Abshero.

“I am very keen to represent my country in the Olympic Games,” he said. “If I do my training well and stay healthy, I am sure I can win something for my country in London.”

Along with Abshero, Ethiopia is sending Getu Feleke who finished second at the Rotterdam Marathon this year.

Dino Sefer rounds out the team.

On the women’s side, Tiki Gelana, who owns a 2:18:58 personal best, leads the charge. She is accompanied by Asselefech Mergia and Getu Feleke. Mergia was a 2009 bronze medalist at the World Championships in Berlin.

For More: IAAF