Sihine began running at school, inspired by the achievements of his compatriot Haile Gebrselassie, and after success at junior level, he emerged as a leading senior athlete. He established himself as a competent cross country runner with consecutive wins at the Cross Internacional de Venta de Baños in 2002 and 2003.Valiente, Emeterio (2003-12-22). . IAAF. Retrieved on 2009-12-27.