ALMAZ AYANA
OkayAfrica's 100 Women celebrates African women who are making waves, shattering ceilings, and uplifting their communities.
Ethiopian runner Almaz Ayana set a new world record at last year’s Olympics when she completed the 10,000m in only 29:17:45. Ayana won the gold medal and critics quickly accused her of doping (or using performance enhancing drugs). Already a champion in 5000m races, this was her first time competing such a long distance at a major event.
Ayana’s clapback to critic’s claims of doping was fierce: “My doping is my training and my doping is my Jesus. Nothing otherwise—I am crystal clear.” We hope to see you at the next Olympics and hope you keep making record times.
-AA
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Thank You From the Women of OkayAfrica
A note of gratitude from the women behind OkayAfrica's 100 Women list on how March was a success—thanks to you.