The Inspiring Journey of Haftu Strintzos: From Ethiopia to Australia

A Runner’s Origin

Haftu Strintzos was born in Tigray, Ethiopia, a region that has faced significant turmoil since November 2020, with a devastating conflict causing over 600,000 deaths and widespread destruction of schools and health facilities. Despite these hardships, Haftu’s natural talent for distance running emerged early in his life.

A New Beginning

In 2007, orphaned Haftu, then just eight years old, was identified by the Tigray Social Affairs Office as urgently needing support. Maria Strintzos, an Australian aid worker of Greek descent, adopted Haftu and brought him to Melbourne in 2011. The transition was challenging due to language barriers, but with the support of his new family, Haftu began to thrive.

Embracing Athletics

Haftu’s athletic journey started at Oakleigh South Primary School and continued at Haileybury College in Keysborough. Encouraged by his teachers, he joined the Oakleigh Little Athletics Club and later the Glenhuntly Athletics Club. His talent and dedication saw him representing his schools in state championships and progressing to senior levels of competition.

Academic and Athletic Achievements

After finishing high school in 2018, Haftu received a full student-athlete scholarship to Villanova University in Pennsylvania, USA. There, he studied Electrical Engineering, ultimately graduating with a Master’s degree. During his time at Villanova, Haftu represented the university’s athletics department in various U.S. college tournaments, balancing his academic and athletic commitments successfully.

Competing on the World Stage

Haftu has made significant strides in his athletic career. He recently competed in the 2024 World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia, where he finished 23rd individually and first among the Australian team, which placed fifth overall. His dedication and performance have not gone unnoticed, and he is set to compete in the 2024 Oceania Athletics Championships in Suva, Fiji, in both the 10,000 meters and 5,000 meters events.

Life in Australia

Haftu lives in Melbourne’s southeastern suburb of Bentleigh East, near Oakleigh, a vibrant hub for the Greek community in Melbourne. His grandfather, Vassili, who only speaks to him in Greek, helps Haftu learn the language. The Strintzos family maintains connections with Melbourne’s Tigrayan African community, often visiting or hosting family friends. Haftu also enjoys Ethiopian food, frequently dining at restaurants offering authentic African cuisine in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming Oceania Athletics Championships in Fiji from June 1-6 will be another milestone in Haftu’s journey. Track events like the 5,000 and 10,000 meters can qualify athletes for the Olympics, and Haftu is determined to continue his pursuit of excellence in both athletics and his personal life.

Haftu Strintzos’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the support of a loving family. From his early days in Ethiopia to his achievements in Australia and beyond, Haftu continues to inspire many with his dedication to both his sport and his studies.

Source: https://www.sbs.com.au/language/greek/en/podcast-episode/haftu-strintzos-the-story-of-the-australian-ethiopian-runner-adopted-by-a-melbourne-greek-family-may-2024/qv10eoouk