Samson Ramadhani

Tanzanian Samson Ramadhani (a police officer) won the gold medal in the marathon at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne on 19th March. He was in fierce competition with Kenyan Fred Mogaka throughout much of the race and finished the 34 seconds ahead. “I knew that the Kenyans were very strong – they were the favourites to win – but I didn’t use my strength. I used my brain” Ramdhani said. According to the Arusha Times he returned home with not only the gold medal but also with some newly acquired football skills from ‘Down under.’ Ramadhani had spent his final hours at the athletes village enjoying a game of ‘kick-to-kick’ with his compatriots and emergency services personnel. ‘Australian Convicts’, an organization which promotes Australian Rules Football overseas, donated two balls to the runner, in order for him to bring the game home to his fellow Tanzanians.