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KENYA: THE LAND OF CHAMPIONS

Iten (Kenya) is a small town in the highlands of Kenya. It's situated in the Rift Valley province, at approximately 35k (22 miles) from the city Eldoret. Iten lays at an altitude of 2400 meter (7900 feet) and is famous for being the centre of Kenyan middle- and long distance running.

This started many years ago, when an Irish Patrician Brother, Colm O'Connel, who was the principal of the local St. Patricks High School, discovered that many of his students had a talent for running.

I use to run to school, 10km every day. And this at altitude, perfect preparation, really.

Heile Gebresilassie

"I've never wore shoes in my life until 13 years old because my parents couldn't afford it "

African dance is often said to be “earth centered;” even in jumping styles the orientation is towards the earth.

"It’s interesting to note that here the only children wearing running shoes are at the very back of the field" - Adharanand Finn

"In this part of the world, virtually every second person is a world-class athlete" - Adharanand Finn

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