Sharif Karie

Sharif Karie (born January 1, 1978) is an American former middle-distance runner who was prolific in high school and collegiate competition for various middle and long-distance disciplines. Born in Mogadishu, Karie left Somalia in August 1993, went to Lansing, Michigan, to live with a brother, then settled in Springfield, Virginia. He attended and competed in track for West Springfield High School, then Lindenwood University, and finally the University of Arkansas.

Running career High school Karie first competed for West Springfield High School, which he attended from the summer of 1993. In the spring of 1994, Karie ran his first high school mile race in 4:40 (min:sec).