Athletics

In the footsteps of legends: Aden Siyad Osman aims to be Kenya's next marathon sensation

Budding marathoner Aden Siyad Osman © Courtesy

By Abdimalik Hajir | Thursday, January 18, 2024

Nicknamed "Kipchoge Wa Garissa", Aden Siyad Osman, a budding marathoner, is hoping to emulate Eliud Kipchoge and become Kenya's next big star in athletics

Inspired by marathon greats Eliud Kipchoge and UK's Mo Farah, Aden Siyad Osman, 21, is determined to carve his name as Kenya's next big sensation in athletics.

Despite facing discouraging voices, the challenging climatic conditions in Garissa, and a lack of support, Osman maintains a high spirit. His passion is to inspire the younger generation, echoing the famous phrase borrowed from marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge: "No human is limited."

Keep reading

Every day, Osman begins his journey at 4 am, embarking on a run from the Rubis Petrol Station in Garissa town to the Quba mosque, covering approximately 7 km before heading to his workplace as a waiter at a local hotel.

Dressed in a t-shirt and tight shorts, with headphones likely to shield him from negative comments, Osman navigates the roads of Kismayu, occasionally crossing paths with motorists and drawing stares from onlookers.

Aden Siyad Osman during one of his early morning training sessions

"Some people think I am mad and actually tell me I am mad for running in this kind of weather, but I'm not mad. I have a mission to be the next Eliud Kipchoge," he declared in an interview with Eastleigh Voice on Thursday.

Born in Eldoret and educated at Eldoret's Moi Barracks High School, Osman completed his studies in 2022. Raised by a single mother after his ex-military father separated from his mother, Osman moved to Garissa to make a living but never abandoned his dream.

"I work as a waiter here while my mother still lives in Eldoret. I started practicing marathon while in high school but came here to make a living, and I will continue until I become the greatest," he affirmed.

Having participated in the Eldoret City Marathon, where he secured the 60th position out of 2000 participants, Osman is now set to represent Northeastern at the Kenya Prisons cross country scheduled for Saturday.

While he receives encouragement and the nickname 'Kipchoge wa Garissa' from supporters, Osman faces detractors who attempt to pull him down and discourage him from realizing his dreams.

"I won't listen to anyone discouraging me. My goal is to become the greatest marathoner and inspire young generations in Northern Kenya that with determination everything is possible," he added.

Osman's biggest challenge currently is the scorching sunshine, which easily dehydrates him during his morning runs, limiting the distance he can cover.

Despite promises from the county government to support him, nothing substantial has materialized. "The governor mentioned me during Jamhuri Day, but nothing has materialized," he expressed.

Osman hopes for sponsorship to cover his accommodation in Iten, a renowned training ground for many athletes. He believes this support will boost his aspirations and spirit to become the greatest marathoner.