Happy birthday! Haile Gebrselassie turns 53 today

Haile Gebrselassie is celebrating his 53rd birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed athletes of his generation.

Popular athlete Haile Gebrselassie has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 53rd birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Gebrselassie, a cultural icon

Born in Asella on April 18, 1973, Haile Gebrselassie's career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in Ethiopian history. Gebrselassie's not just a great athlete, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Haile hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Haile Gebrselassie as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 53.

Happy Birthday, Haile, you're the best!

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