Olympic hurdler runs barefoot

Abebe Bikila, the Ethiopian Olympic champion, made history by winning the gold medal in the 1960 Rome Olympics while running barefoot due to a last-minute inclusion in the team. Bikila's remarkable career began as a bodyguard to Ethiopian royalty and was marked by his unique training methods, which included running without shoes. Meanwhile, Australian hurdler Michelle Jenneke faced tremendous adversity at the 2024 Olympics, where she suffered a complete rupture of her hamstring yet still completed her events, showcasing remarkable determination and grit. Following a fall in her first heat, Jenneke returned to compete in the repechage round, finishing last but emphasizing her desire to prove her resilience. Despite her injury, she expressed pride in her performance and maintained a positive spirit, embodying the Olympic spirit of perseverance. Both athletes exemplify extraordinary dedication and courage in their respective sports, highlighting the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.