Deriba Merga, who just won the 113th Boston Marathon, plans, according to those covering the run, to spend the $150,000 prize money (plus additional money from various product endorsements) on supporting his extended family back in Ethiopia. Race commentators say that back home, $150 a month supports a family of four quite well. This means Merga has just become the Bill Gates of his hometown.

I was rooting for the American runners (male and female) to win until I heard this. While I'm sure the money would have been nice for American winners, it's probably lifesaving for those who run out of desperation, so they can feed their children and give them a better life.

I watched the race live this morning--my husband was participating, and finished with a good time.  

(Yes, Dave, I'll have that BreakPoint script ready on time....)

(Image © AFP)

Comments

[vikingmother]

What a great guy!!!

Reminds me of Roberto Clemente, the great baseball player of a generation ago.

He died in a plane crash - where he was bringing aid to the needy (I think it was his home country).

Maybe that swimmer guy who felt the need to party on & smoke marijuana could take notes here & grow up!