The 2010 New York City Marathon will go into the history book as a day of mixed blessings and emotions. A new champion was crowned when world cross country champion Gebre Gebrmariam triumphed in his first competitive marathon. Congratulations. And thanks to the Chilean miner Edison Pena for gutting it out and teaching us all an important lesson about human spirit. Edison ran regularly, in his work boots, while trapped underground with his 32 comrades. How amazing that he was able to complete a marathon, less than 4 weeks after his fairy tale rescue!On the other hand, this year's running of the NYC Marathon will be remembered as the final race in the remarkable career of world record holder Haile Gebrselassie. The 37 year old champion, running in his first New York City Marathon, pulled out of the race at mile 16 when his right knee failed as he was crossing the Queensboro Bridge. Gebrselassie then shocked everyone by announcing his retirement. British running legend Sebastian Coe called Gebrselassie "not only the best distance runner of all time, but arguably the best runner of any description of all time."
Gebrselassie's career spanned 18 years, and throughout that period he dominated the sport, setting 27 world records while holding numerous championships, including Olympic titles. Sebastian Coe commented that he distinguished himself as a true champion by "dominating an era." Continued Coe: "He's just done it with such style and ease."
Gebrselassie made good use of his fame and success. It enabled him to invest in Ethiopia, giving generously to lift the quality of life of his countrymen. He truly has been one of a kind.
Contrast his charismatic presence with the younger elite runners coming out of Kenya and Ethiopia. At a press conference at this year's Chicago Marathon, moderator Tim Hutchings was clearly flustered when the panel of 4 elite African marathoners fumbled their answers to his questions. "You are all so young," he remarked. When he asked if anyone had a vision for giving back to their country as had Haile Gebrselassie, the response was a unanimity of blank stares. Only time will prove whether the likes of Kenyan phemon Sammy Waijura will stand alongside Haile Gebrselassie as a champion of the ages. For sure, the world of competitive distance running is diminished by the retirement of the great one: Haile Gebrselassie.
