Olympic sensation Kenenisa Bekele’s fiancée meets the press
By Ethiomedia Staff Writer
Aug 25, 2004

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“His name is Kenenisa Bekele. Get used to hearing it.” – AP

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“A devastating burst of speed.” – AFP
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“His last lap drew a collective gasp from the Olympic stadium crowd.” – AP
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“A blistering burst of speed destroyed his rivals.” – BBC

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Eighteen-year-old Alem Teshale is the fiancée of reigning Olympic and World champion Kenenisa Bekele. A promising athlete herself, Alem was also a participant in the last World Junior Athletics Championships in Canada. The online magazine Reporter interviewed Alem pertaining to Kenenisa’s performance at the ongoing Athens Olympics. Excerpts follow:

What impressed you most?
His finishing power, and the overall team work impressed me most.

Were you confident he would set an Olympic record?
I thought he would score an impressive result, and with a blessing God, that has been achieved.

How do you see your fiance?
As a powerful athlete, and a loving one.

When are you getting married?
We’ve already received, as per our tradition, the blessings of our families. Wedding day has not yet been specified, though.

Do you have a new name for Kenenisa?
I call him a hero!
That’s all?
…I guess there is nothing more honorable than being a hero!

Congratulations!
Thank you!