Timeline
1954 – 2002
Timeline of Abedin Gilo Lame’s Life & Legacy
The immortal champion of Albanian wrestling • Lieutenant Colonel • Commander of ROS • Founder of FK Partizani Wrestling
Early Years & First Triumph
Born on 27 September 1954 in Tirana into a prominent military family. His father, Gilo Lamaj (Lame), was a veteran partisan officer and long-time trusted personal bodyguard of Prime Minister Mehmet Shehu. At age 15, Abedin dramatically defeated the established national champion Rruzhdi Kola in his first major school competition at Skënderbej School.
The Undefeated Champion
For 13 consecutive years Abedin Lame remained completely undefeated in domestic competitions, winning every Albanian National Championship and Republic Cup title. Awarded Master of Sport (1973) and Honored Master of Sport (1979) — the first wrestler in Albania to receive the highest national honor. Gold medals at National Spartakiads (1974 & 1979).
International Competitions
Represented Albania at the World Championship (Katowice 1974), European Championship (Oslo 1978), Mediterranean Games (Athens 1991), and tournaments in Italy and Greece. Political restrictions frequently prevented full participation.
Coach, Officer & ROS Commander
Founded the wrestling section at FK Partizani and coached the national team — Partizani won 15 national titles. Rose to Lieutenant Colonel and in 2000 was appointed Commander of the elite Reparti i Operacioneve Speciale (ROS).
Recognition & Enduring Legacy
Completed the U.S. Hostage Negotiations course and named Honorary Mayor of Socorro, New Mexico. Collaborated with France’s RAID unit. Passed away on 9 October 2002. Posthumously awarded the Olympic Order (2003) and Medal for Distinguished Services (2011). The annual Abedin Lame Cup continues to honour his legacy.