This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
Kenya's dominance in marathons and long races may be fading, thanks to a growing trend of urbanization. According to XN Iraki, writing for The Standard on October 23, 2019, the country's rural areas have long been the breeding ground for marathoners, with many attributing this to the high altitude and terrain found in these regions.
However, Iraki argues that there may be more to it than just geography. Growing up in urban areas, he notes, can be a hindrance to developing the endurance and mental toughness needed to complete a marathon. In rural areas, children are often forced to run to school, strengthening their physical and mental abilities.
Iraki also points out that the type of food consumed in urban areas is often processed and unhealthy, making it unlikely that someone would become a marathoner by eating such foods. In contrast, rural areas tend to have a more natural diet, which may contribute to the development of marathoners.
Furthermore, Iraki notes that the nature of work in rural areas, such as small and micro-enterprises, requires patience and setting up systems, skills that are also valuable in marathon running. Additionally, rural folks are often great contributors to the disciplined forces.
As urbanization increases, Iraki wonders if Kenya's dominance in marathons will come to an end. He notes that there is a clear correlation between urbanization and economic growth, and that urbanization can remove spontaneity from our lives, including running.
