Ethiopia's Tamirat Tola rewarded after ending Kenya's marathon reign at Olympics

Olympic marathon gold medalist Tamirat Tola honored by Ethiopia after record-breaking victory at Paris Olympics

Olympic marathon gold medalist Tamirat Tola has been promoted by the Oromia Police Commission following his record-breaking performance at the Paris Olympics.

Tola, who set a new Olympic record with a time of 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 26 seconds, has been elevated to a higher rank reflective of his monumental achievement.

Tola’s race into the annals of Olympic history was solidified when he outpaced Belgium's Bashir Abdi by 21 seconds and Kenya's Benson Kipruto by 34 seconds.

The Oromia Police Commission recognized his stellar performance with a promotion, placing him among the higher echelons of its ranks.

The specifics of his new position, akin to an Assistant Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner, underscore his significance both as an athlete and a symbol of national pride.

The celebration of Tola’s victory was marked by a grand parade, where he was honored with a ride on a military vehicle while the Oromia Police band played tunes commemorating his success.

Reflecting on his unexpected opportunity at the Olympics, Tola stated.

“I was the reserve in the Ethiopian team, but when Sisay had injuries then I had a chance. I was fully prepared and knew I could fulfill my dream. I am very proud, very happy," he said.

This victory was particularly poignant as it marked his second Olympic medal, his first being in the 10,000 meters at the 2016 Rio Games.

Tola’s transition from track to marathon has been nothing short of spectacular.

“After I came from track I achieved a lot in marathon,” said Tola, who also broke a 12-year course record at last year's New York marathon.

His main rival, Bashir Abdi, also had a noteworthy performance, securing his second Olympic medal.

The marathon course itself, beginning from Hôtel de Ville and weaving through Parisian landmarks like Opéra Garnier and the Louvre, presented its own challenges with inclines as steep as 13%.

However, Tola dominated the course, pulling away decisively after 35 kilometers.

The event concluded near the gold-domed Invalides monument, a fitting backdrop for a race that was as much about historical achievements as it was about athletic prowess.

Tola’s victory not only etched his name in Olympic history but also earned him high honors from the police commission, celebrating his dual role as an athlete and a public servant.

posted Thursday August 15th
by Festus Chuma