Elsabet Amare, a 17-year-old Ethiopian runner from Injibara, is set to represent her country at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. With her sights set on winning medals, she draws inspiration from her father and Ethiopian distance-running great Meseret Defar. Elsabet's journey to the Games is a testament to her dedication and the support of her community. She hopes to encourage other young athletes from her hometown to pursue their passions.
Elsabet's athletic prowess was evident at an under-18 competition in Nigeria in 2025, where she showcased her tactical skills in the 800 metres. Waiting until the final moments to make her move, she overtook Kenya's Vicody Chemutai and won in 2:02.96. World Athletics described her finish as "a tactical masterclass". This victory was a milestone in Elsabet's career, demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure on a big stage.
Elsabet's interest in athletics was sparked by her father, who loved the sport and would follow it through magazines and TV. He encouraged her to enter the sport without forcing her to run, and she began competing at school. Her father, a high school history teacher, would tell her about Ethiopia's great athletes, including Haile Gebrselassie, Kenenisa Bekele, Tirunesh Dibaba, and Meseret Defar. Meseret Defar, in particular, was an inspiration to Elsabet, who admired her resilience and desire to win.
The community in Injibara played a significant role in supporting young athletes, including Elsabet. She recalls a project where she used to train, which received support from the community. Her teachers also helped her follow her dream, allowing her to participate in tournaments and catch up on schoolwork when she returned. Sport was Elsabet's favourite subject, and she pursued athletics despite the challenges of balancing training and schoolwork.
Elsabet's preparation for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games has been ongoing, with Ethiopia's athletics team training for the past six months. She expresses confidence in her abilities, citing the support of her coaches and the community. "My coaches always support and motivate me. I am well prepared but not stressed. I will give it my best," she said. Elsabet hopes that her journey will inspire other young athletes from her region to pursue their passions.
Elsabet's success is not limited to her athletic achievements; she also credits her teachers and community for their support. She believes that continued support for young runners in her home region is essential. "In the region I grew up, there is support, but that needs to continue. There are so many talented runners there," she said. Elsabet's story serves as a testament to the power of community and support in nurturing young athletes.
As Elsabet prepares to take the stage at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, she remains focused on her goals. With God's grace, she expects to be successful and hopes to make her country proud. Elsabet's journey is an inspiration to many, and her determination and resilience are qualities that will serve her well in her future endeavours.
Key points
- Elsabet Amare, a 17-year-old Ethiopian runner, is set to represent her country at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
- Elsabet draws inspiration from her father and Ethiopian distance-running great Meseret Defar.
- The community in Injibara has played a significant role in supporting young athletes, including Elsabet.
