EAF president watches on as Gudaf Tsegay and co. gear up ahead of WIC Glasgow 24

Addis Ababa, February 26, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopian Athletics Federation President Derartu Tulu observed the national athletics team’s training ahead of the World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 24 taking place on 1-3 March.

Derartu and other high-level officials of the Federation encouraged the athletes as the team expedites its preparations for this week’s global athletics event.

While inspecting preparations, the EAF president shared her experience and imparted words of motivation to the athletes. “Maintaining a longstanding and strong bond with one’s coach significantly enhances effectiveness. Persistence is key; athletic prowess is not achieved hastily but rather through unwavering dedication. More importantly, keeping oneself away from doping is crucial. Reaping the rewards of diligent efforts is truly gratifying.”

The final entry lists for this week’s indoor championships confirm that 651 athletes from 133 teams have been entered. The 651 entries comprise 331 women and 320 men. 18 of the gold medallists from the last edition of the championships will be in action in Glasgow, vying to earn another global title. Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay and Solomon Barega will be among the twenty reigning world champions and seven gold medallists from the Tokyo Olympics.

Gudaf Tsegay, who is set to represent her country in women’s 3000m meeting, is also among world record-holders going for further glory in Glasgow

In that regard, Ethiopia will be represented by six men and eight women athletes in 800m, 1500m, and 3000m distances in Scotland, the World Athletics entry list confirmed. Some familiar faces to lead the line for Ethiopia include world champion Gudaf Tsegay, Freweyni Hailu, road mile world champion Diribe Welteji, Hirut Meshesha as well as Solomon Barega, Getnet Wale, and Samuel Teferra.