Running News Daily

KATA Expands Global Footprint with Five New Running Camps Opening in June 2025

The Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) is advancing its mission to develop world-class runners and uplift rural communities by launching five new KATA Running Camps across Kenya in June 2025. These new satellite locations build upon KATA’s two well-established international retreats—in Thika, Kenya, and Monforte da Beira, Portugal—forming a growing global network grounded in endurance, discipline, and opportunity.

Five New Camps Opening in June

Each new camp will be led by accomplished athletes and coaches who deeply understand the training demands of distance running:

• Kericho, Kenya (~2,500m / 8,200 ft) – Operated by Edwin Soi, Olympic 5000m bronze medalist (2008) and road racing legend. The location offers quiet roads and soft dirt trails, ideal for interval training and long runs.

• Molo, Kenya (~2,440m / 8,000 ft) – Operated by Eric Chepkwony, a seasoned distance runner and coach. The terrain features hilly roads and scenic countryside paths that simulate real race conditions.

• Keringet, Kenya (~2,600m / 8,530 ft) – Operated by Sammy Dismas, a world-class runner and proven coach with numerous victories to his name. The camp features a mix of flat and rolling terrain ideal for tempo and progression workouts.

• Kapcherop, Kenya (~2,400m / 7,875 ft) – Operated by Philemon Kipruto, a respected local coach. Athletes benefit from forest trails and undulating village roads perfect for aerobic development.

• Nyandarua, Kenya (~2,300m / 7,550 ft) – Operated by Peter Njoroge, a dedicated coach with strong community roots. The camp includes grassy trails and high-elevation road loops ideal for base building.

Each of these camps blends elite training with mentorship, while also promoting sustainability through the KATA Potatoes project, a unique initiative that connects athletics to local agriculture and economic growth.

Established KATA Retreats in Kenya and Portugal

KATA’s flagship retreat in Thika, Kenya (~1,530m / 5,020 ft) continues to serve as a high-performance training hub. Managed by Christopher Muiruri, the retreat features a mix of paved loops, dirt roads, and peaceful paths—making it ideal for both elite athletes and visiting guests. KATA head coach John currently trains 20 KATA athletes and works closely with guest runners of all levels.

In 2024, KATA expanded into Europe with a retreat in Monforte da Beira, Portugal (~470m / 1,540 ft). Managed by Alberto Santos, the retreat is located at the historic Anderson Manor, just one hour from the Spanish border. The setting features technical trails, scenic roads, and a wellness-focused environment. Bob Anderson and his wife Catherine now spend about 35% of their time at this location, which serves as a perfect base to teach the Kenyan training philosophy. At least one accredited Kenyan coach is on-site at all times.

A Vision Rooted in Training and Transformation

KATA was founded by Bob Anderson, creator of Runner’s World and a lifelong runner—he has been running since February 19, 1962. His vision goes beyond athletic excellence. It’s about building stronger communities through sport and shared purpose.

“This is not just about running fast,” says Anderson. “It’s about building strong roots—on the track, in the field, on the road, and within the community.”

Looking ahead, Anderson adds:

“We’re planning to open another five KATA Running Camps in Kenya by the end of the year. This is a new concept, and the feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive.”