Former Ethiopian Olympic cyclist Geremew Denboba has passed away at the age of 90. The cyclist’s family announced his death on March 23, 2023, after he had sought medical attention.
He was born in Addis Ababa in 1932. He was a member of the Ethiopian cycling team that competed in the Olympics in Melbourne, Australia, in 1956, finishing 25th in the road cyclist race.
Geremew was joined in the competition by Mesfen Tesfaye, Tseaye Bahata, and Mengistu Niguse. They did well enough in the group cycling event to finish fourth. He also lined up alongside Admasu Megera at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, Italy, but suffered an accident during the race and was airlifted to the hospital.
Unfortunately, no one on the cycling squad was able to do well individually or collectively.
After suffering an injury, he came back to coach the team at the 1968 Olympic Games. He also went to the second All-Africa Games in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1973 with the cycling team and came back with a gold medal.
He is a cycling champion who has won over 26 trophies and 32 medals.
As far as Ethiopian cyclists go, Geremew is an all-time leader in terms of international success. On February 23, 2023, funeral services were held at St. Peter and Paul’s Church.