Alphonce Felix Simbu has made history by becoming Tanzania’s first-ever gold medallist in the marathon at the IAAF World Athletics Championship in Tokyo. The 33-year-old’s victory marks a significant milestone, not just for him personally, but for Tanzanian sports as a whole, ending a long-standing East African monopoly in the event that had been dominated by Kenyan and Ethiopian runners.
Simbu’s triumph, which came on the heels of years of perseverance, was not a product of luck but of relentless dedication. Reflecting on his journey, Simbu shared how his ten-year pursuit of a world title was filled with setbacks, but he never gave up. He first competed in the marathon at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing and despite not medaling, he continued to build on his experience. A bronze medal at the 2017 London World Championships gave him hope, and he remained committed to improving his performance.
The victory in Tokyo was a culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice, supported by the Athletics Tanzania Federation, regional authorities, and his role in the Tanzania People’s Defence Force, where he serves as a soldier. The collaboration between these groups played a pivotal role in preparing him both mentally and physically for the race. Simbu’s win was especially significant because it came against the backdrop of fierce competition from Kenyan and Ethiopian runners, who have historically dominated the marathon scene.
For Tanzanian athletes, Simbu’s success serves as an inspiration that victory is achievable even against formidable competition. His win not only shattered the East African marathon hierarchy but also signaled a new era for Tanzanian athletics, showing that with discipline, structure, and support, anything is possible. His message of perseverance resonates with athletes who may have faced their own struggles. Simbu urged his fellow athletes to remain steadfast, as success comes with hard work and an unwavering belief in their potential.
Simbu’s homecoming was celebrated by Tanzanians across the nation, where he was welcomed as a hero. He took the opportunity to thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her continued support of sports development in Tanzania, noting that her encouragement has inspired him and many others to pursue their dreams. Simbu’s victory represents a new chapter in Tanzanian athletics and has the potential to motivate a generation of athletes to aim for greatness on the global stage.
