University: The University of Texas

Marathon / 10,000 / 5,000

2:17:21/ 28:30 / 13:32

Haftu was born in Ethiopia and moved to Tyler, TX in his early teen years. After a standout career at Tyler Lee High School, he went on to become one of the greatest distance runners in University of Texas history.  

As a Longhorn, Haftu accumulated almost a dozen All-Big 12, All-Region and All-America honors. Upon graduation in 2024, he held the school 5,000m school record (13:32) and owned the #2 10,000m time in program history (28:30). In 2022 Haftu won the Big 12 10,000m championship on the track and became the 20th NCAA cross country All-American in school history.  
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Post-collegiately, Haftu has seen instant success. In his professional debut, Haftu took 4th in the 2024 Indianapolis Monumental marathon.
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Go To Breakfast spot:  Mary's on Red River

Pump up Song:  Anbessa by Teddy Afro  ‍