Haile Gebrselassie Not Running in Beijing Marathon

Officials in Beijing are probably seething by news that distance runner Haile Gebrselassie just announced that he will not be competing in the Olympic marathon in Beijing. Haile is perhaps the sport’s biggest name and a fan favorite.

The city’s pollution levels and his exercise induced asthma are the reasons cited by the marathon world record holder’s agent about why he decided not to run the marathon. Rather, he will try to qualify for Ethopia in the 10,000-meters.

“The pollution in China is a threat to my health, and it would be difficult for me to run 42 kilometers in my current condition,” Gebrselassie said in an interview.

Britain is leaning towards giving Olympic athletes pollution masks to deal with the rancid air. Maybe this is a job to call on NASA for help?

By Jay Hicks, a.k.a. Track Evangelist