Said Aouita. The Runner Who Changed the Arab World
Said Aouita was a great athlete. He was a trailblazer who made running a source of national pride across the Arab world. Born in Kenitra, Morocco, in 1959, he became one of the most dominant middle and long-distance runners of the 1980s, breaking records and inspiring future generations to lace up their running shoes.
A Decade of Dominance
Aouita’s golden years stretched across the 1980s, where he dominated distances from 800m to 10,000m—a feat few runners in history have achieved. He set standards that took years to break. He was the first man to run 800m under 1:44, 1500m under 3:30, 3000m under 7:30, 5000m under 13:00, and 10,000m under 27:30. His ability to compete across multiple distances was unheard of at the time.
At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Aouita made history by winning the gold medal in the 5000m, putting Morocco on the map in long-distance running. Four years later, at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, he proved his versatility by winning bronze in the 800m, making him the only athlete in history to medal at both 800m and 5000m in the Olympics.
Setting Records and Making History
Throughout his career, Aouita set multiple world records:
- 1500m: 3:29.46 (1985)
- 2000m: 4:50.81 (1987)
- 3000m: 7:29.45 (1989)
- 5000m: 12:58.39 (1987)
His 5000m record was groundbreaking, making him the first athlete to break the 13-minute barrier. A milestone that changed the sport forever.
Aouita had an unmatched winning percentage, claiming victory in 115 out of 119 races between 1983 and 1990. His strategic racing style, explosive speed, and finishing kick made him nearly unbeatable.
The Legacy of a Running Icon
Said Aouita’s impact extended beyond his own achievements. He inspired a generation of Arab and African runners, proving that they could compete—and win—on the world stage. He made running a respected and celebrated sport in the Arab world, paving the way for future stars like Hicham El Guerrouj.
After retiring, Aouita transitioned into coaching and sports analysis, continuing to shape the sport he helped redefine. His influence remains undeniable.
Today, Said Aouita’s name is still synonymous with excellence in running. A testament to a career that redefined endurance, speed, and the limits of human performance.