Sir Mo Farah Chases Down Thieves at ‘Olympic Speed’ to Recover Stolen Phone

Long-distance running legend Sir Mo Farah showcased the determination that made him a global icon when he sprinted after potential thieves in his gated community last week. The retired Olympic champion had been out jogging with his wife, Tania, when he placed his phone on the side of a private road, intending to retrieve it at the end of his run.

Before he could return, a large white van with two men inside stopped nearby. One of the men grabbed the phone and the van sped off. However, they didn’t anticipate Sir Mo’s quick reaction. According to an eyewitness, the 41-year-old took off at “Olympic speed” and “full throttle” in pursuit of the van, reports the Express.

Realizing who was chasing them, the men quickly returned the phone before fleeing the scene, reported the Daily Mail. While the phone was recovered, Sir Mo is reportedly outraged by the incident. The road where his phone was taken is part of an exclusive 964-acre gated community known for its extensive round-the-clock security.

The 5,000m and 10,000m Olympic gold medalist is baffled as to how the culprits managed to bypass the secure environment. A source told the Mail on Sunday that an investigation into the incident has been launched. When questioned about the event, Sir Mo chose not to comment.

This incident follows Sir Mo’s recent retirement announcement, which came after he finished fourth at the Great North Run in September last year, a race he had previously won a record six times. Despite stepping away from competitive running, the four-time Olympic gold medalist remains as quick and agile as ever, as evidenced by his reaction during the theft.

Sir Mo and his wife Tania, who is also a long-distance runner, have been married for 14 years and share a long history together, dating back to their days in the same West London running club.

While Sir Mo’s quick reflexes and iconic sprinting ability thwarted the thieves, the event raises questions about the security of even the most exclusive communities. For Sir Mo, it’s a frustrating reminder that vigilance is required, even in areas designed to be secure.