Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah to Receive Honorary Degree from University of Oxford
Oxford, UK – Sir Mo Farah, the celebrated Olympic long-distance runner, is set to receive an honorary degree from the University of Oxford on June 25. He will be honored alongside other distinguished figures, including BBC News journalist Clive Myrie and former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Dame Jacinda Ardern.
A Sporting Icon and Inspiration
Sir Mo Farah’s athletic achievements are well-documented.He secured gold medals in both the 5,000m and 10,000m races at the London 2012 Olympic Games, a remarkable feat he replicated at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics four years later. His success on the track has made him one of Team GB’s most successful athletes.
Did You Know?
Sir Mo Farah is renowned for his signature “Mobot” party, a gesture that became synonymous with his victories and inspired fans worldwide.
beyond his sporting achievements, Sir Mo’s personal story has resonated deeply with the public. After retiring from athletics in 2023, he revealed the challenges he faced as a child, including being brought to the UK illegally as a child
and forced to work as a domestic servant during his youth.
Overcoming Adversity
Sir Mo has spoken candidly about how sport provided an escape during tough times. The only thing I could do to get away from this [living situation] was to get out and run,
he told the BBC, highlighting the transformative power of running in his life.
Other Honorees
Alongside Sir mo Farah, the University of Oxford will also recognize other notable individuals:
- Clive Myrie: BBC News journalist and presenter, known for his work on Mastermind.
- Lord Melvyn Bragg: A long-serving BBC figure who has been with the corporation as the early 1960s, currently hosting the Radio 4 series “In our Time.”
- Dame Jacinda Ardern: The former Prime Minister of New Zealand,celebrated for her leadership during a period of notable crises.
Other recipients of Honorary Degrees include Ukrainian history expert Prof Serhii Plokhii, Irish writer Prof Colm Tóibín, German biophysicist Prof Erwin Neher, scientist and entrepreneur Prof Robert S Langer, and historian Prof Timothy Snyder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Pro Tip:
Honorary degrees are often awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields or to society as a whole. They are a way for universities to recognize and celebrate exceptional achievements.
