Gizealew Ayana
Ethiopian long-distance runner
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Gizealew Abeje Ayana (born 11 February 2003) is an Ethiopian long-distance runner who specializes in the marathon and half marathon. In his marathon debut he won the 2023 Paris Marathon.
February 11, 2003
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Ethiopian |
| Born | Gizealew Abeje Ayana February 11, 2003 |
| Occupation | Long-distance runner |
| Years active | 2021–present |
| Sport | |
| Country |  Ethiopia |
| Sport | Track and field |
Event(s) | Marathon, Half marathon |
| Achievements and titles | |
| Personal bests |
|
Career
After competing in several European half marathons in 2021 and 2022, Gizealew Ayana stepped up to the full marathon distance. He had already shown considerable promise in the half marathon, stating his ambition to break the 59-minute barrier in the event.[1]
In April 2023, at 20 years old, he entered the Paris Marathon as a debutant in a field of seasoned professionals. He stayed with the lead pack throughout the race and made a decisive move in the final stages to pull away, ultimately winning in a time of 2:07:15.[2][3]
His older brother, Tsedat Ayana, is also a marathon runner.
Personal bests
Major results
| Year | Competition | Location | Position | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Poznań Half Marathon | Poznań, Poland | 2nd | 1:02:14 |
| 2022 | Cardiff Half Marathon | Cardiff, Wales | 2nd | 1:00:15 |
| 2023 | Paris Marathon | Paris, France | 1st | 2:07:15 |