The Great Ethiopian Run is an annual 10-kilometer road race held every November in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Known as one of Africa’s most celebrated running events, the race brings together thousands of professional athletes, amateur runners, and spectators in a vibrant celebration of Ethiopia’s legendary running culture.
The idea for the race was introduced in 2000 by Ethiopian long-distance running legend Haile Gebrselassie, together with Peter Middlebrook and Abi Masefield, following Haile’s return from the Sydney Olympic Games. The inaugural event attracted 10,000 registered participants, with many more joining the celebration unofficially. It marked the beginning of the first major annual 10-kilometer race in Ethiopia, a country internationally recognized for producing some of the world’s greatest distance runners.
The event features an international 10-kilometer race as well as a 5-kilometer women-only race. Over the years, it has attracted many famous Ethiopian athletes, including Olympic and world champions such as Haile Gebrselassie, Kenenisa Bekele, Tirunesh Dibaba, and other leading runners. While elite athletes compete for victory, the race also provides a platform for discovering Ethiopia’s emerging running talents, many of whom have later achieved international success.
The Great Ethiopian Run has grown into one of the largest road races in Africa, with participation increasing from 25,000 runners in 2005 to tens of thousands in later editions. Held at the high altitude of Addis Ababa, more than 2,400 meters above sea level, the race presents a unique challenge for competitors while creating an unforgettable atmosphere of energy, music, and celebration.
More than just a sporting event, the Great Ethiopian Run reflects Ethiopia’s deep connection with athletics and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the passion, pride, and hospitality of Ethiopian people.
