Abebe Bikila

The son of a shepherd and a native of Ethiopia, Abebe Bikila is best known for setting the world record marathon time at the Rome Olympics in 1960. Bikila’s feat is all the more impressive considering his feet; just as he had trained his entire life, in Rome, Bikila traversed 26-plus miles of cobblestone streets barefoot. By becoming the first ever Black African to win an Olympic gold medal, Bikila inspired millions and opened the door to African dominance in the sport of long distance running.