22-year old sprinter, Joseph Fanbulleh, has put Liberia on the map of the Olympics by becoming the first ever Liberian to advance to the Semifinals stage in the 200m run.
Born on February 4, 2001, in Hopkins, Minnesota, Fahnbulleh was destined for athletic greatness from a young age.
The son of Liberian immigrants, his athletic prowess became evident during his years at Hopkins High School.
There, he captured state titles and set records that put him on the radar of top college programs across the nation.
Choosing to attend the University of Florida, Fahnbulleh continued to sharpen his skills under the mentorship of renowned coach Mike Holloway.
It was here that Fahnbulleh began to truly shine, particularly in the 200 meters. His breakout moment came in 2021 when he won the NCAA Outdoor Championship in the 200 meters with a blistering time of 19.91 seconds, cementing his status as one of the fastest sprinters in the collegiate ranks.
Despite being born in the U.S., Fahnbulleh’s heart has always been with Liberia. Opting to represent his parents’ homeland on the international stage, he carried the Liberian flag with pride at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021 due to the pandemic. Competing in both the 100 meters and 200 meters, Fahnbulleh made history by reaching the final of the 200 meters, finishing fifth with an impressive time of 19.98 seconds. This achievement made him the first Liberian sprinter to reach an Olympic final, marking a monumental moment for the West African nation.
Fahnbulleh’s impact goes beyond his personal achievements. His decision to represent Liberia has sparked a renewed interest in athletics within the country, making him a national hero and a role model. He is committed to using his platform to support athletic development in Liberia, ensuring that the path he blazed can be followed by many more.
As the world watches, Joseph Fahnbulleh’s journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics is a story of talent, determination, and cultural pride. With his eyes set firmly on the podium, this young sprinter is not just running for glory, but for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
By: Blesset D Kpenkennie
