From 100 Meters to Ultras: KATA Expands Its Reach
The KATA sprinters team is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Kenyan athletics scene. Operating under the broader KATA (Kenyan Athletics Training Academy) family, this dynamic group of athletes is trained and led by Coach Julius Migwi, whose focus on speed and power has begun to deliver impressive results.
“We started training our sprints team in 2023,” says Coach Migwi. “At KATA, we operate as one family. Our sprint team trains with precision and discipline, and this year we’ve already achieved a lot.”
Standout Performances in 2025
Among the team’s top achievements:
• Doreen Waka placed 2nd at the prestigious Betika Grand Finale earlier this season and earned an invitation to compete at the Kip Keino Classic, scheduled for May 31.
• Peris Chege represented Kenya at a relay event in Ethiopia, showcasing her talent on the international stage.
• Gladys Ngure claimed 2nd place in the 100m hurdles, further demonstrating the growing strength of KATA’s women sprinters.
In addition, several emerging sprinters are progressing rapidly, signaling the depth of talent within the academy.
A Vision Beyond Distance Running
“I’m extremely proud of what our KATA sprint team is accomplishing,” says KATA director Bob Anderson. “When I first came up with the idea of launching a KATA training camp back in 2014, I imagined it would be focused solely on distance runners—training the Kenyan way. But after we officially began with distance runners in 2019, I quickly realized there was a need to support athletes across all events, from the 100 meters to ultramarathons. That vision has become a reality. We now have a growing sprint program in Kenya and a second KATA location in Portugal, with more ideas taking shape. KATA is making its mark on the global athletics stage.”
Looking Ahead
Coach Migwi and the team remain focused on the future. One of their current challenges is training on a murram (dirt) track. He hopes to eventually transition to a tartan surface, which would enhance both performance and injury prevention.
“Our goal is to be record breakers and to produce the best out of the best,” says Julius. “We are committed to building a world-class program.”
He offers a guiding principle that drives his athletes: “Never give up, press on.”
“Long live the KATA family under Bob Anderson leadership,” he adds. “Together, we are building something special.”
As the sprint team continues to evolve, it stands as a powerful symbol of KATA’s broader mission: to develop world-class athletes across all disciplines—distance, middle distance, and now, sprint events.
posted Wednesday May 21st
by Boris Baron