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Birth
Francis Obikwelu was born in Nigeria -
Escape to Portugal
After participating in an international competition in Lisbon, Obikwelu decides to stay in Portugal to escape poverty and persecution in Nigeria -
Period: to
Construction Worker
Because of his illegal immigrant status, Obikwelu worked in construction before being allowed to compete again -
Olympic Medallist
In the Athens Olympic Games, he won the silver medal in the 100 meter race, the best position ever for a Portuguese sprinter -
European Athlete of the Year
Among many awards, Obikwelu was named the European Athlete of the Year