TurkeyBiography
Kenyan-born Turkish middle distancer. Born in Eldoret. Considered as 'prolific talent' during junior days after having some good races in European circuit.
He switched allegiance to Turkey in June 2011, changing his name as İlham Tanui Özbilen. Surname was given by his manager, Önder Özbilen. Due to his transferee status, he had not eligible to compete for his new country until 2013, but IAAF gave special permit after negotiations, which allowed him to compete 2012 World Indoors in Istanbul. In his very first for Turkish team, Ilham took the silver medal in 1500 metres, which is first - and still only - medal won by a Turkish athlete in that championship.
Complete double at Mediterranean Games in 2013 summer. Additionally, won two silver medals in European Indoors.
Ilham took a break after several injuries from 2016, that prevented him to compete. He was able to run just two races in 2016 season, including heats of Rio Olympics.
PERSONAL BESTS:
800m: 1:44.00 (2013)
1500m: 3:31.30 (2013)
Mile: 3:49.29 (2009
TRIVIA
♦ ENKA Club member.
♦ Turkish record holder 800m, 1500m (indoor & outdoor), mile.