Passion or Profession: Runner

Period: 1974-

El Guerrouj first participated in sports as a soccer goalie, but when he won his first national competition at age 14, he switched to running. He has since set several world records and holds seven of the eight fastest times for 1500 meters run outdoors. He has won several world championships and in 2004 became a two-time Olympic gold medalist. His winnings have made him a millionaire and gained him intense fame in his native country.