Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma (Photos via Getty Images)
Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma had fans scared for his well-being after his heavy fall at the start of the last 200 meters of the men’s Steeplechase at the Paris Olympics earlier on Wednesday.
Lamecha Girma was stretchered off the track at Stade de France on Wednesday at the 2024 Paris Olympics during the men’s 3,000-meter Steeplechase final after the defending silver medalist in the event from the Tokyo Olympics tripped over a hurdle and it resulted in a hard foul that saw him smack his head on the ground and render him unconscious.
He was placed in a neck brace and stretchered off by medical personnel shortly after the race.
The 23-year-old, who holds the 3,000m steeplechase world record, had fans worried, but his condition would improve as he was reportedly conscious and able to talk.
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A statement from Paris 2024 organizers said: “Following his fall in the 3,000m steeplechase, Lamecha Girma received immediate care from the on-site medical teams. Our thoughts are with him, and we are sending him our very best wishes for a swift recovery. Paris 2024 is in close contact with the Ethiopian NOC to stay updated on his condition,” per The Guardian.
As for the race Lamecha Girma was expected to medal in, Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali became the first man to successfully defend an Olympic steeplechase title since Volmari Iso-Hollo of Finland did way back in 1936.
USA’s Kenneth Rooks would take silver, while Kenya’s Abraham Kibiwot won bronze.
Lamecha Girma’s Health Is Way More Important Than An Olympic Medal
Ethiopian runner Lamecha Girma thankfully regained consciousness before being taken to a hospital after falling during the men’s 3,000-meter Steeplechase at the Paris Olympics.
He was the reigning silver medalist in the event and was in a prime position to get back to the podium when tragedy struck.
While he may be heartbroken over the outcome due to so much hard work put in, his health is more important.
He is only 23 and has way more years ahead of him, and his redemption story in 2028 could be legendary.
