He ran to be free. Meet "Mëzi"

Everyone remembers Kastriot Sulce or as his friends and athletes called him "Mëzi". This for him, because the big guy was like a "horse" that ran and didn't stop. It is about a champion, a record holder, a man who loved freedom very much. Although Kastrioti was a model athlete, he was persecuted by the dictatorship. His father, a former major officer, was imprisoned by the regime. Kastrioti and the rest of the family experienced exile and he found hope in his passion for the sport of Athletics. He started his career with the "17 Nentori" team, where his talent was soon seen in the 100 and 200 meter speed races.

In 1983, he broke two national records, in 200 meters with a time of 21'6", and in 400 meters with a time of 48'02", records that also marked Kastriot's name in sports history with Skenderbeu's jersey. During this time Kastrioti was a soldier in the genius department where he worked with picks and shovels and then he did not hesitate and found time to train under the orders of the great coach, Tomi Stefallari.

We all remember when the "Christ Isak" Cup was held in Korça. A stadium filled more than in a football match, where Kastrioti came first in every race, not only in his individual events, but also in the two 4x100 and 4x400 relays.

There is an interesting detail from breaking the national record in 400 meters in Korça. Kastrioti asked for permission to participate in the competition, but the department commander did not allow it. "Mëzi" gets out of the enclosure and comes to the stadium, breaks the record, gets the medal, but he doesn't have time to rejoice because he has to be in the ward because he could be punished. Newspapers and radios together with the only television of the time have been buzzing about this record. Hearing about him, the commander of the department feels the mistake, puts his hand on his heart for this magnificent athlete and thus Kastrioti does not receive punishment.

He had no luck and opportunity to compete abroad. But for Kastriot, the day of freedom would also come. After the 90s, he was decorated for his contribution. Kastrioti, after the 90s, has been decorated with all possible titles and medals, showing that passion and desire are above everything.

At the age of 53, his heart betrayed him. He was no more, but he left behind the memory of a sportsman and a man who never let his dream die.