Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
8/23/2025
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
KATA Camp Olenguruone/Nakuru Time Trials Deliver Thrilling 5km Races
Olenguruone/Nakuru, Kenya – August 17, 2025 – The KATA Camp Olenguruone Satellite, operated by Coach Charles Ngeno in partnership with KATA Nakuru Camp, hosted highly competitive 5km time trials that showcased the depth of rising Kenyan talent across both men’s and women’s races.
Men’s 5km Race
The men’s event was a tightly contested battle from the start, with the lead pack pushing a relentless pace. In the end, it was Vincent Sang (Bib 019) who surged to victory, clocking 13:42.00. He was closely followed by Wonder Kipngeno (Bib 006) in 13:45.03, with Clinton Kimutai (Bib 001)rounding out the podium in 13:50.07.
Just seconds behind, Robert Sigei (Bib 002) finished in 13:53.12, while Jasis Cheruiyot (Bib 021)and Aron Rutto (Bib 023) crossed almost shoulder-to-shoulder in 13:57.06 and 13:57.21respectively. The depth of the field was evident, with all top ten men finishing under 14:11.
Top 10 Men’s Results (5km)
1. Vincent Sang – 13:42.00
2. Wonder Kipngeno – 13:45.03
3. Clinton Kimutai – 13:50.07
4. Robert Sigei – 13:53.12
5. Jasis Cheruiyot – 13:57.06
6. Aron Rutto – 13:57.21
7. Clinton Kipkurui – 13:58.11
8. Emmanuel Kiprotich – 13:59.36
9. Collins Kiplui – 14:06.07
10. Kelvin Kipkorir – 14:10.04
Women’s 5km Race
The women’s race was equally fierce, with the top three athletes finishing within just three seconds of each other. Mary Chepkoech (Bib 028) took the win in 15:57.01, edging out Ida Chepkoech (Bib 027), who clocked 15:59.11. Faith Chepluru (Bib 026) secured third with 15:59.36, only fractions of a second behind.
Close on their heels, Tabitha Cheropgeitch (Bib 039) finished in 16:00.10, while Deborah Chepkoech (Bib 030) and Abigael Chelanga (Bib 024) battled through in 16:04.22 and 16:05.07. With nearly the entire top 10 within 13 seconds, the women’s field proved both deep and competitive.
Top 9 Women’s Results (5km)
1. Mary Chepkoech – 15:57.01
2. Ida Chepkoech – 15:59.11
3. Faith Chepluru – 15:59.36
4. Tabitha Cheropgeitch – 16:00.10
5. Deborah Chepkoech – 16:04.22
6. Abigael Chelanga – 16:05.07
7. Brenda Cherotich – 16:07.13
8. Irvine Chepkolir – 16:08.01
9. Duti Chemytai – 16:10.09
Building the KATA Legacy
The Olenguruone/Nakuru trial is part of the fast-growing KATA Running Camp initiative, founded by Bob Anderson, which has now launched 30 camps across Kenya. Each camp blends elite training with community support, providing athletes with opportunities to develop their potential while also contributing to KATA’s innovative potato farming model – fueling both champions and local livelihoods.
(08/17/25) Views: 321Boris Baron
Battling the Elements: KATA Running Camp No. 29 Time Trials in Sirikwa
SIRIKWA, Kenya – August 18, 2025 – At nearly 2,600 meters above sea level, training is never easy—but that’s exactly the point. Athletes at KATA Running Camp No. 29, under the guidance of operator and coach Christopher Ronoh, tested their limits in the camp’s latest 10km time trial.
With steady rainfall, unforgiving hills, and the thin air of Kenya’s high-altitude highlands, the course demanded not only fitness but also courage and resilience. The results reflected that determination.
Men’s 10km Results
1. Nickson Kipkemoi – 31:05
2. Evans Langat – 31:20
3. Collins Bett – 31:32
4. Nickson Kiprotich – 31:49
5. Vincent Rono – 31:55
6. Shadrack Kiprotich Yego – 32:02
“These time trials are about more than finishing times,” said Coach Ronoh. “They teach athletes how to endure, how to handle pressure, and how to race in conditions that mirror what they’ll face internationally.”
Building Champions Through Challenge
The 10km effort was as much a mental test as a physical one. The rolling Sirikwa terrain combined with altitude pushed runners to dig deep—yet they rose to the challenge, showing the toughness that has long defined Kenyan distance running.
Kipkemoi’s 31:05 win on such a demanding course set the tone, but every athlete who crossed the line proved the strength of the camp’s training program.
Part of a Bigger Vision
KATA Running Camps, founded and directed by Bob Anderson, have rapidly grown to more than 30 locations across Kenya. Each camp provides structured training, coaching, food, and community support, with the long-term goal of preparing athletes for international success.
Time trials like this one are central to the program’s mission: sharpening athletes, building confidence, and shaping the next generation of Kenyan champions.
(08/18/25) Views: 229Boris Baron
Brothers From the UK Reconnect With Roots Through Running at KATA Thika Retreat
THIKA, Kenya, August 18, 2025 – When Amit and Mitul Pankhania landed in Kenya this August, it was more than a family visit. The brothers, both based in the United Kingdom, had come to see their parents, but they also sought something deeper—a chance to immerse themselves in the heartbeat of Kenyan running.
Their week-long stay at the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) Thika Retreat, founded and directed by long-distance running enthusiast and My Best Runs publisher Bob Anderson, blended cultural reconnection with athletic discovery. It all culminated in their participation in the retreat’s monthly time trials, a hallmark of KATA’s training culture that attracts both local and international athletes.
A Shared Passion for Running
Though both hold demanding professional careers in the UK, Amit and Mitul share a love for fitness and recreational running. For them, the sport is about more than paces and splits—it’s about discipline, resilience, and connection.
“Kenya has always been close to our hearts,” Amit said after completing the time trial. “This time, instead of just visiting family, we wanted to experience what makes Kenyan athletes the best in the world. Staying at KATA Thika gave us that chance.”
“It was inspiring to see the level of dedication here. Athletes wake up early, train hard, and push each other in ways you don’t often see back in the UK. Being part of that environment, even briefly, was eye-opening.”
Training the Kenyan Way
For seven days, the brothers lived like KATA athletes. Mornings began with runs along Thika’s rolling hills, afternoons were spent on drills and strength work, and evenings turned into conversations about races, goals, and sacrifices.
“They didn’t come just as guests—they trained with us, ate with us, and encouraged everyone,” said Coach John, who leads training at the Thika Retreat. “That kind of interaction is important. Our athletes see how running connects people across continents.”
The Monthly Time Trials
The highlight of their visit came on Wednesday, August 13, at the retreat’s 5K and 10K time trials. On Thika’s undulating roads, the brothers lined up alongside dozens of local athletes, from young up-and-comers to seasoned competitors.
They weren’t there to chase podiums but to soak in the atmosphere. With nerves giving way to rhythm, Amit and Mitul pushed through the course, greeted at the finish line with cheers and applause.
“The time trial was unforgettable,” Amit said. “It wasn’t about beating anyone—it was about being part of something bigger, a tradition that has shaped champions.”
Family, Roots, and Identity
Beyond training, the trip carried a personal weight. Visiting their parents in Kenya has always been a return to family roots. But staying at KATA Thika Retreat gave the journey new meaning.
“We grew up hearing about Kenyan running legends,” Mitul explained. “Being here, training in the same environment, made us proud of our heritage. Kenya isn’t just where our parents live—it’s a place of inspiration.”
Their parents, who visited the retreat one evening, were moved to see how athletics had deepened their sons’ connection to Kenya. It was a bridge across generations and cultures.
A Global Running Village
For Christopher Muiruri, who manages KATA Thika Retreat, stories like Amit and Mitul’s reflect its mission.
“When runners from abroad come here, it’s not just about training—it’s about learning, sharing, and inspiring,” he said. “The Pankhania brothers brought incredible enthusiasm, and they left with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Indeed, their journey underscored how running transcends borders. Whether on the streets of London or the roads of Thika, the sport continues to connect people in powerful ways.
Looking Ahead
As they return to the UK, Amit and Mitul carry more than memories. They take with them the rhythm of early-morning runs, the camaraderie of shared meals, and the spirit of Kenyan running that has inspired athletes worldwide.
“We’ll be back,” Amit promised. “And next time, we’ll bring friends to share this magic.”
Mitul added with a smile, “Running brought us closer to our heritage on this trip. That’s something you can’t put a price on.”
For KATA Thika Retreat, the visit was a reminder that athletics isn’t only about producing champions—it’s about building bridges. And for the Pankhania brothers, it was a journey that blended family, fitness, and the enduring heartbeat of Kenyan running.
(08/18/25) Views: 210Robert Kibet
First KATA Time Trial – Camp No. 4 (Nyandarua) – August 13, 2025
Nyandarua’s KATA Running Camp No. 4 marked a milestone on August 13, hosting its first-ever KATA 10km time trial under the guidance of operator and coach Peter Njoroge. The new camp, part of the fast-growing KATA network launched just three months ago, brought together a motivated group of athletes eager to test themselves in a competitive setting.
In an impressive debut performance, Moses Maina took command early and crossed the line first in 32:01, setting the benchmark for future trials. Evans Ndundu followed in 33:07, while James Mungaisecured third with 33:40.
Full Results – 10km
1. Moses Maina – 32:01 (Bib 004)
2. Evans Ndundu – 33:07 (Bib 001)
3. James Mungai – 33:40 (Bib 005)
4. James Githeugu – 35:00 (Bib 006)
5. Antony Katugoi – 36:30 (Bib 007)
6. Mwangi Muchoki – 36:50 (Bib 008)
7. Samuel G. Mungai – 37:00 (Bib 010)
8. Peter Kamani – 39:09 (Bib 002)
9. James Maina – 40:00 (Bib 009)
10. Simon Kamau – 40:30 (Bib 011)
11. Peter Kuria – 40:11 (Bib 015)
Camp No. 4 is one of 30 KATA Running Camps now operating across Kenya, supported by an additional 20 KATA Potato Farms that help sustain the program long-term. Together, these camps provide high-level training for more than 400 athletes, pairing athletic development with sustainable farming initiatives.
With solid performances across the field, Nyandarua’s debut time trial sets a strong foundation for the camp’s journey ahead — and the promise of even faster times in the months to come.
(08/15/25) Views: 202Boris Baron
Stacked Men’s Elite Field Set for the 2025 Chicago Marathon
The 2025 Chicago Marathon, set for October 12, promises one of the deepest men’s fields in recent history. Featuring Olympic medalists, World Marathon Majors champions, and promising debutants, this year’s race could produce a historic performance on the streets of the Windy City.
Leading the field is defending champion John Korir of Kenya, who owns a personal best of 2:02:44. He will be challenged by countryman Timothy Kiplagat (2:02:55) and Amos Kipruto (2:03:13), both proven contenders on the global stage. Adding to the Kenyan firepower are Cyprian Kotut (2:03:22), Philemon Kiplimos (2:04:01), and former World Half Marathon record-holder Geoffrey Kamworor(2:04:23).
International stars include Olympic marathon champion Bashir Abdi (2:03:36) of Belgium, Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo (2:03:01), and Ethiopia’s Huseydin Mohamed Esa (2:04:39).
The American contingent is particularly strong this year, led by Conner Mantz (2:05:08), Daniel Ebenyo (2:06:04), and Galen Rupp (2:06:07). Other top U.S. names include Matt Richtman (2:07:56), Ryan Ford (2:08:00), Rory Linkletter (2:08:01), and CJ Albertson (2:08:17). The lineup also features debut marathoners Casey Clinger and Tai Dinger, both looking to make their mark.
With such a talent-packed field, the 2025 Chicago Marathon could see not only a thrilling battle for the win but also a possible course record — and perhaps another sub-2:03 clocking on American soil.
The flat, fast Chicago course combined with October’s typically cool running conditions make this race a prime stage for history. Fans around the world will be watching closely to see which athlete emerges victorious in what promises to be one of the most competitive marathons of the year.
(08/15/25) Views: 202Boris Baron
KATA Camp 23 – Tala Time Trials Highlight Rising Talent
TALA, Kenya – KATA Camp 23, operator/coach Patrick Ivuti, staged an impressive round of time trials today, with athletes testing themselves over 10km and 5km distances. The event, guided by coach and former world-class marathoner Patrick Ivuti, delivered competitive racing and showcased the camp’s growing depth of talent.
10km Men
The men’s 10km was a tightly fought contest from start to finish. Leonard Leipa produced a decisive late surge to claim victory in 33:15, edging out Peter Wambua in 33:40. John Muthiani rounded out the podium with a strong 34:08. Nine athletes contested the race, with these three leading the field.
Results:
1. Leonard Leipa – 33:15
2. Peter Wambua – 33:40
3. John Muthiani – 34:08
5km Men
In the men’s 5km, youthful energy and sharp pacing were on full display. Joshua Nzioka set the tone early and held on to win in 17:06. John Munguti followed just six seconds later in 17:12, while Musyoka Mutuku took third in 17:17. Thirteen athletes lined up, with these three leading the charge.
Results:
1. Joshua Nzioka – 17:06
2. John Munguti – 17:12
3. Musyoka Mutuku – 17:17
5km Women
The women’s 5km was another highlight, with Gloria Mumbi controlling the race from the front to win convincingly in 18:17. Faith Mwende secured second place in 19:34, and Esther Kalondu claimed third in 19:53. Four women competed, each showing determination to improve.
Results:
1. Gloria Mumbi – 18:17
2. Faith Mwende – 19:34
3. Esther Kalondu – 19:53
Today’s Tala time trials underlined the steady progress being made at KATA Camp 23. From the explosive finishes in the men’s races to the commanding run in the women’s event, the camp continues to be a platform for developing endurance, sharpening speed, and preparing athletes for higher levels of competition.
(08/16/25) Views: 195Fridah Terry
KATA Time Trial at Kangundo Camp 17 Showcases Rising Talent
Kangundo, Kenya – August 2025 – The KATA Running Camp 17, operated by legendary marathoner Jimmy Muindi, hosted a competitive 10km time trial that highlighted both established runners and emerging young talent.
The event saw Thomas Mutua take command of the race, finishing first in a sharp 30:35, closely followed by Francis Kioko, who crossed the line just ten seconds later in 30:45. The battle for third was claimed by Joshua Maingi in 31:40, holding off Daniel Kilonzo (32:30).
Further down the field, Charles Ndunda clocked 35:25, while the standout performance of the day came from 14-year-old Stephen Kioko, who impressed the camp with a determined 37:20 over the challenging 10km distance. Maingi Mutisya rounded out the results with 37:40.
Results – KATA Kangundo Camp 17, 10km
1. Thomas Mutua – 30:35
2. Francis Kioko – 30:45
3. Joshua Maingi – 31:40
4. Daniel Kilonzo – 32:30
5. Charles Ndunda – 35:25
6. Stephen Kioko (14 yrs) – 37:20
7. Maingi Mutisya – 37:40
Camp 17 continues to build momentum under the guidance of Muindi, a six-time Honolulu Marathon champion and one of Kenya’s most respected road runners. The Kangundo group is part of the expanding KATA program, founded by Bob Anderson, which has now established 30 KATA Running Camps across Kenya. Each camp pairs elite-level training with a sustainable farming model, creating opportunities for athletes to chase their running dreams while supporting local communities.
(08/17/25) Views: 190Boris Baron
Emmanuel Rotich Joins KATA as Camp Manager
KATA has announced the appointment of Emmanuel Rotich as its new Camp Manager.
“KATA is based in central Portugal, housed at the Anderson Manor of Portugal, with offices in Thika, Kenya, and Los Altos, California. From these three locations, we coordinate all aspects of our camps and potato farms, making KATA a truly global initiative.”
“Emmanuel has a strong athletic background, was educated at Tulane University in New Orleans, and most importantly, after speaking with him, I was impressed with his passion for the sport we love and for tying in potato farming to support our mission.”
A Unique Mission: Athletics and Agriculture
In just 90 days, KATA has grown into a movement unlike anything else in the world. The program now operates 30 KATA Running Camps across Kenya, along with 20 additional KATA Potato Farms, bringing the total to 50 KATA farms. These farms provide both food security and revenue streams while directly supporting the athletes who train under the KATA banner.
“There is nothing like this in the world,” said Emmanuel. “When Paul Kipsiele Koech, one of the 30 camp operators and an Olympic medalist, suggested I reach out to Bob—a person I had followed for years on Facebook—I hoped I would be selected to become part of the KATA family.”
Emmanuel Rotich: A Global Perspective
Born and raised in Kenya, Emmanuel Rotich brings an impressive mix of athletic, academic, and professional experience to KATA.
As a former student-athlete at Tulane University in New Orleans, he balanced competitive running with academics, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and a Master’s degree in Sustainable Real Estate Development. That journey instilled discipline, resilience, and a commitment to excellence—qualities he now carries into his professional career.
“I chose KATA because of its innovative approach to combining athletics with sustainable agriculture,” Emmanuel explained. “This dual focus reflects my values of personal development, community growth, and environmental responsibility.”
Vision for KATA
As International Manager, Emmanuel has outlined three clear goals:
1. Drive Business Growth – Build partnerships and expand KATA’s global influence.
2. Enhance Athlete Development – Ensure that runners in KATA Running Camps have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
3. Promote Sustainable Agriculture – Strengthen and grow KATA Potato Farms, which underpin the program’s long-term sustainability.
His professional background spans architecture, sustainable development, logistics, and operations management, combined with the firsthand perspective of an athlete. This balance of skills positions him uniquely to guide KATA into its next phase of growth.
Looking Ahead
“I see KATA not just as an academy but as a movement that integrates sports and sustainability,” Emmanuel said. “By combining athlete development with agricultural innovation, KATA creates a model that benefits individuals, communities, and the environment. I am inspired by Bob Anderson’s leadership and excited to contribute to this vision on both local and international levels.”
With Emmanuel Rotich stepping in as International Manager, KATA continues to gain momentum as a pioneering force in athletics and agriculture. What began as an idea just three months ago has already blossomed into a transformative program with global reach—and Emmanuel’s appointment signals that this is only the beginning.
(08/20/25) Views: 186Boris Baron
Faith Kipyegon Breaks Diamond League Record in Silesia with Second-Fastest 3000m in History
Silesia, Poland – August 16, 2025 — Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon once again delivered a masterclass in middle-distance running, storming to victory in the women’s 3000m at the Diamond League meeting in Silesia. Her time of 8:07.04 not only set a new Diamond League record but also established an African record, a meeting record, and the second-fastest performance in history.
A Perfect Setup from the Pacemaker
Kipyegon started the race tucked in behind Australia’s Jessica Hull, who paced the first 2000m with precision. Hull, the world record holder at 2000m (5:19.70 from July 2024), provided the ideal tempo before stepping aside, leaving Kipyegon to attack the final kilometer alone.
The Chase for History
With the green pacing light signaling world-record pace, Kipyegon powered through the last 1000m in a determined bid to eclipse the mark of 8:06.11. Down the final straight, it looked as though she might catch it, but she crossed just over a second shy.
Despite missing the world record by a whisker, Kipyegon’s 8:07.04 was good enough to rewrite multiple record books:
• Diamond League Record (DLR)
• African Record (AR)
• Meeting Record (MR)
• National Record (NR)
• World-Leading Time (WL)
Cementing Her Legacy
This performance reinforces Kipyegon’s dominance across distances from 1500m to 5000m. It also marks yet another historic milestone in a career already decorated with Olympic and World Championship titles.
Her run in Silesia was not only one of the fastest in history but also a reminder that she remains within touching distance of the 3000m world record — and that record may soon fall if she lines up for another attempt.
(08/16/25) Views: 184Boris Baron
Rodgers Kipkoech Shines at KATA Running Camp 18 Time Trial in Moiben
On August 15, 2025, KATA Running Camp 18 in Moiben hosted its latest 10km time trial, delivering fast performances and exciting competition. Rodgers Kipkoech emerged as the standout of the day, dominating the race from start to finish.
Kipkoech claimed victory in a swift 29:57, breaking the 30-minute barrier and setting the pace for the field. Elliud Kipkosgei secured second place in 30:43, while Mike Komen took third with a strong 31:28.
10km Results – Men
1. Rodgers Kipkoech – 29:57
2. Elliud Kipkosgei – 30:43
3. Mike Komen – 31:28
KATA Running Camp 18 is part of the growing KATA network, which now includes 30 running camps across Kenya. These time trials give athletes the chance to test their fitness, sharpen racing skills, and prepare for future success on national and international stages.
With performances like these, Moiben’s athletes are clearly building toward even faster times — and keeping the competitive spirit of KATA alive.
(08/15/25) Views: 174Boris Baron
