Essay On Long Distance Running

Kenya is known all over the world for its expertise in long distance running; since the 1960s, Kenya has produced more world class athletes, record holders and Olympic gold medalists in long distance running than any other country in the world. Since 1951, when the Kenya Amateur Athletics Association was formed, it has become obvious that Kenya has a great talent in distance running, among both male and female athletes. While the exact cause of Kenyan dominance in long distance running is yet unproven, athletics in the country has benefitted Kenya in terms of tourism, patriotism, unity during sporting events, re-defining of gender roles among males and females and lastly, instilling physical and emotional values.

Long distance running has been part of the Kenyan ‘culture’ ever since the 1964 Rome Olympics when Wilson Kiprugut Chuma became the first Kenyan to win an Olympic medal at the 800 meters race. Although he currently walks around Kericho town unnoticed, he was the man that paved the way for Kenyans in the domination of long distance running. After Kiprugut’s bronze medal in 1964, Kenyans have gone on to win over seventy-five Olympic medals in both track and field. Encouraged by the results of the 1964 Olympic Games, Kiprugut,

Tegla Loroupe is the world record holder at the 20, 25 and 30 km; and Catherine Ndereba is a Boston marathon winner, World Champion in 2005 and 2007, and Olympic silver medalist in 2008. Pamela Jelimo became a gold medalist in the 800 meters at the 2008 Olympic Games. Nancy Lagat won 1500 meters at the same Olympic Games. Margaret Okayo is a multiple Boston Marathon winner. Mary Keitany is the winner of the 2011 London Marathon. Vivian Cheruiyot was the World Champion in 10,000 meters and 5000 meters at the 2011 World Championships. Edna Kiplagat is a marathon World Champion. Eunice Sum is the current 800 meter World Champion (Athletics