Meb Keflezighi: From Refugee to American Running Legend
Early Life of Meb Keflezighi: A Refugee’s Journey
Mebrahtom “Meb” Keflezighi’s story begins in the war-torn streets of Asmara, Eritrea, where the air was thick with the acrid smell of gunpowder and the distant echoes of artillery fire. Born on May 5, 1975, Meb grew up in a country ravaged by conflict, where survival was a daily battle. His father, Russom, a staunch supporter of Eritrean independence, fled to Sudan on foot, leaving his family behind for five long years. When Russom finally sent for them, the Keflezighis embarked on a perilous journey to Italy, where they lived as refugees before finding sanctuary in San Diego, California, in 1987 (The New York Times).
Finding Running: Meb’s Path to Belonging
In America, Meb’s life transformed. A shy 12-year-old who spoke no English, he found solace in running during a seventh-grade PE class. His coach, Dick Lord, noticed his raw talent and told him, “Meb, you have a special gift. Someday, you’ll be in the Olympics.” Those words ignited a fire in Meb, who began to see running as more than a sport—it was a lifeline, a way to belong in a new world. By high school, he was winning state championships, and at UCLA, he became a four-time NCAA champion, setting the stage for a career that would redefine American distance running (Sports Illustrated).
Overcoming Challenges: Injury and Perseverance
Meb’s path to greatness was anything but smooth. In 2007, during the U.S. Olympic Trials, he suffered a devastating pelvic stress fracture. As he limped across the finish line in eighth place, his coach, Bob Larsen, told him, “It’s been an honor coaching you,” believing Meb’s career was over. But Meb refused to quit. He spent a year rehabilitating, running zero marathons, and battling self-doubt (Sports Doing Good).
The challenges didn’t end there. In 2008, Meb lost his sponsorship with Nike, leaving him without financial support. At 33, many thought his best days were behind him. Yet, Meb’s resilience shone through. “I’ve always believed in the power of perseverance,” he later said. “You don’t give up when things get tough; you dig deeper”.
Historic Achievements: Marathon Wins and Olympic Glory
Meb’s comeback was nothing short of miraculous. In 2009, he became the first American in 27 years to win the New York City Marathon, clocking a personal best of 2:09:15. The victory was a testament to his grit and determination, proving that age and setbacks were no match for his will (Meb Keflezighi Official Website).
But his crowning achievement came in 2014, at the Boston Marathon. Just a year after the tragic bombings, Meb wore the names of the victims on his bib and ran with a singular purpose: to honor their memory. Against all odds, he crossed the finish line first, becoming the first American man to win Boston since 1983. His time of 2:08:37 was not only a personal best but also a symbol of hope and resilience for a nation still healing.
Meb’s career is a tapestry of historic moments: a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics, victories at major marathons, and a legacy as the only runner to win Boston, New York, and an Olympic medal. Each triumph was a testament to his philosophy: “Run to win doesn’t mean finishing first; it means getting the best out of yourself” (Olympedia).
Meb Keflezighi’s Legacy: Inspiring a Generation
Today, Meb Keflezighi is more than a marathon legend; he’s a beacon of hope and perseverance. Retired from professional racing, he continues to inspire through his foundation, “Maintaining Excellent Balance,” which promotes healthy living and education for youth. He’s also a sought-after speaker, sharing his story of resilience and the American Dream (Tampa Magazines).
Meb’s journey—from a war-torn refugee to a marathon superstar—embodies the spirit of perseverance. As he often says, “My story is the American Dream.” And indeed, it is a story that reminds us all to keep running, no matter the obstacles.
Photo by: By Skechers Inc – Skechers Inc, CC BY-SA 4.0,
Run to Overcome: The Inspiring Story of an American Champion's Long-Distance Quest
By Meb Keflezighi with Dick Patrick
Run to Overcome tells the inspirational story of a man who discovered the real meaning of victory, and who embodies the American spirit of overcoming the odds.
Run to Overcome
- Paperback: 272 pages
- Publisher: Tyndale Momentum
- ISBN-13: 978-1414339573
