Tulu, who is currently the head of the local federation, is a former long-distance runner who competed in cross-country and marathon races.
She won in the 10,000-meter race at the Barcelona 1992 and Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, and the bronze medal at Athens 2004, the state TV station Fana Broadcasting Corporate recalled.
The award was presented by Sebastian Coe, president of the world governing body of athletics, as part of the activities of the World Championships of that sport that is taking place in Budapest, Hungary.
At the age of 23, she won her first Olympic gold medal, which made her the first African woman to win that title.
During her sporting career, she accumulated 35 gold, 12 silver and 15 bronze medals.
That, along with a victory in the 800-meter run in her district, set Tulu on the path to a successful career in track and field.
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