On a dramatic night at the Paris 2024 Olympics Ethiopian athlete Lamecha Girma, the world record holder in the 3000m steeplechase suffered a harrowing fall during the final of the event.
The Incident
The Fall
During the final lap of the 3,000m steeplechase, Lamecha Girma’s race took a tragic turn. After clipping his knee on a barrier, Girma hit his head hard on the track. The impact left him motionless, sparking immediate concern among spectators and competitors.
Immediate Medical Response
Medics swiftly responded to the scene, carefully placing Lamecha Girma in a neck brace before transporting him off the track on a stretcher. The rapid response was crucial in ensuring he received the necessary care.
Girma’s Condition
Hospitalization
Following the accident, Girma was taken to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. Initial reports confirmed that he had regained consciousness and was able to speak, which was a positive sign given the severity of the incident.
Statements from Officials
Paris 2024 organizers released a statement expressing their concern for Girma and confirming that he received prompt care. They also mentioned ongoing communication with the Ethiopian National Olympic Committee (NOC) to stay updated on his recovery.
Race Results and Highlights
Victory for Soufiane El Bakkali
In a remarkable turn of events, Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali claimed victory in the steeplechase. El Bakkali became the first man to defend his Olympic steeplechase title since Finland’s Volmari Iso-Hollo in 1936.
Medal Standings
- Silver: Kenneth Rooks (USA)
- Bronze: Abraham Kibiwot (Kenya)
Other Notable Performances
Men’s Discus
Jamaica’s Roje Stona pulled off a surprise win in the men’s discus, throwing an Olympic record of 70m. Lithuania’s Mykolas Alekna, the world record-holder, was edged out for silver by a mere three centimeters.
Women’s Pole Vault
Australia’s Nina Kennedy emerged victorious in the women’s pole vault, clearing a height of 4.90m to secure gold. She defeated Katie Moon from the United States in a thrilling final.
Upcoming Events
American sprinter Noah Lyles is a step closer to achieving an individual Olympic sprint double. After clinching gold in the 100m, Lyles qualified for the 200m final with a second-place finish in his semi-final heat.
Amber Anning in Women’s 400m Final
Great Britain’s Amber Anning secured a spot in the women’s 400m final with a personal best time of 49.47 seconds. This is her first Olympic final, and she expressed excitement and determination for the upcoming race.
Other Results
Rhasidat Adeleke Advances
Ireland’s Rhasidat Adeleke qualified for the women’s 400m final, finishing second in her semi-final. Meanwhile, Team GB’s Victoria Ohuruogu and Laviai Nielsen did not progress.
Tade Ojora’s Performance
Great Britain’s Tade Ojora competed in the men’s 110m semi-finals but did not advance to the final after finishing in seventh place.