Tamrat Tola: “I am honored to receive National Medal of Honor for Paris Olympics achievement”

Addis Ababa, August 14, 2024 (FBC) – Olympic marathon champion Tamrat Tola, who won Ethiopia’s only gold medal at the Paris Olympics, expressed his delight upon receiving recognition and an award from President Sahle-Work Zewde.

In an exclusive interview with FBC after the ceremony, Tamrat Tola shared his gratitude towards his injured compatriot Sisay Lema.

Recall that Tamrat had initially been listed as a reserve in the men’s marathon team by the Ethiopian Athletics Federation.

Due to an undisclosed injury, Sisay Lema was unable to participate in the Paris Olympics, and Tamrat Tola was subsequently called up to replace him.

Tamrat Tola seized the opportunity, triumphing in one of the most grueling marathon races and setting a new Olympic marathon record in the process.

During the interview, Tamrat Tola praised Sisay Lema’s selfless decision to withdraw from the competition, stating that Sisay prioritized the trust of the country and the public over personal glory.

In her remarks at the event last night, President Sahle-Work Zewde emphasized the need for the Ethiopian Athletics Federation to independently identify and address any gaps, taking immediate corrective measures to restore the nation’s reputation in athletics to its former glory.

President Sahle-Work also acknowledged that the athletes deserved recognition and encouragement for their performances at the Paris Olympic Games, which resulted in bringing few medals to Ethiopia.

She extended her praise to Sisay Lema, who made way for Tamrat Tola, and commended Sisay’s selfless decision to prioritize the national team’s success. The president also emphasized the significance of athletics in making Ethiopia known in the world and its strong emotional bond with the entire nation.

The Ethiopians have closely followed the Paris Olympic Games, President Sahle-Work reminded, mentioning the fact that the results were not as expected at the Paris Olympic Games.

The president stated that the fact that Ethiopia achieved only 3 gold medals in the last three consecutive Olympic Games, including this year’s, shows that there is a need to take immediate corrective action by pointing out the existing problems and gaps.

She further emphasized that other stakeholders should also make concerted efforts to ensure that Ethiopia’s performance in the upcoming Olympic Games does not slip further.