Meseret would be entitled the first African women to be crowned in the history of World Athlete of the Year award.

American Tyson Gay, 25, wins the 2007 male World Athletes of the Year.

Winner of all her races this season, including two World records and a World best, Meseret, the 2007 Female World Athlete of the Year commented: “I don’t have words to describe how happy I am.

Meseret said the award is very special for me and Ethiopian women.

“Those who struggle very hard and who don't have very many opportunities to achieve the highest levels of athletics. So I dedicate this award to them." Mseret said.

The renowned legendary athlete Haile Gebreselassie who broke world records more than 26 times including Marathon, received Inspirational Award with the British athlete Paula Radcliff. 

“When I ran the 1500 then the 5000 and the 10,000, it was just kind of a jog. Compared to what I’m doing right now. Honestly speaking, I think this is a time to think about what the Marathon athlete is doing.” Haile said.

The Marathon is not just an easy effort. When you run the Marathon you rung against the distance. I’ve been running the last 20 years, he said.

The 2007 World Athletics Gala Awards includes, World Athletes of the Year, Performances of the Year, Inspirational Award, Hero of Athletics Award, Newcomer of the Year, Rising Star Award and Coaches’ Award  

In the 20-year history of the World Athletics Gala, a celebration of the sport which started back in 1988, Haile Gebrselassie has won in 1998, Kenenisa Bekele have won twice in 2004 and 2005.

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