Weynay Ghebresilasie (born 24 March 1994 in Gheza Hamle, Eritrea) is an Eritrean born runner, competing for Great Britain as of February 2021, who specializes in the 3000 metres steeplechase.[1] He competed in that event at the 2012 Summer Olympics, coming tenth in his heat, and was the flag bearer of the Eritrean team.[2][3] He also placed sixth at the 2012 World Junior Championships in Athletics that year.

Subsequent to the Olympics, he sought political asylum in the United Kingdom.[4] He joined Sunderland Harriers & Athletic Club and on 31 January 2021 became eligible to represent Great Britain in international competition.[5][6]

References

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  1. ^ Weynay Ghebresilasie at World Athletics  
  2. ^ "Olympic Results, Gold Medalists and Official Records". International Olympic Committee. 2017-02-23. Archived from the original on 2013-05-31. Retrieved 2018-04-09.
  3. ^ Staff. "London 2012 Opening Ceremony - Flag Bearers" (PDF). Olympics. Retrieved 10 August 2012.
  4. ^ Quinn, Ben (2012-08-14). "Eritrea's flag-carrying runner seeks asylum in UK to flee repressive regime". the Guardian. Retrieved 2018-04-09.
  5. ^ Weynay Ghebresilasie: Running for freedom in Sunderland. BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2013-04-07.
  6. ^ of allegiance - Decision of the World at. World Athletics. Retrieved on 2021-02-21.]