Life in fast lane inspires Ethiopian athletes

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia: On the concrete tiers of Meskel Square, a vast rallying point in Addis Ababa, armies of aspiring athletes scamper around despite biting, pre-dawn cold as they wait for their trainers to arrive.

Across the plaza, rigorous practice routines are well underway under a giant screen where track greats Kenenisa Bekele's and Tirunesh Dibaba's famous double wins at the Beijing Olympics were relayed live to thousands of ecstatic fans.

"The earlier you wake up the better," said 17-year-old Tirusew Wolde.