Help Kenyan Athletes Realize Their Dream

John, a member of our group, asks, “Will you pay for me to travel to USA to race?” He shows no hint of apology for the question.

“Like a manager?” I ask.

“Yes. You take fifteen percent of whatever money I win,” he says.

“But what if you don’t win?”

He doesn’t seem to understand my question.

“But what if you don’t win?” I repeat.

He looks at me like I am crazy.

“But I will win,” he says. “I train, so I will win.”

John’s response reveals to me the Kenyan mindset. The Kenyan runners truly believe that anything is possible. If others can run fast, then they, too, can run fast. If others win, then they, too, can win. They don’t even think about the possibility of not winning. Losing, or even coming in second place, is not part of the Kenyan mindset. They believe, with all their heart and mind that, if they do the physical work, they will run fast and they will win. Running fast and winning are the logical conclusions for the work they put in.

Unfortunately, the Kenyan runners don't have the money to pay for basic things to support their training and their belief to win. They can't afford food, shoes, or rent. They don't have running water or a bathroom at home. Every day is a struggle to succeed. Running is their only way out of poverty. If they can become fast enough, they may attract a manager who can get them to run a race outside of Africa and they can win prize money and change their lives forever.

Since living in Kenya, I have reformed a small group of athletes who I am coaching from the U.S., and am asking for your help as I focus on helping them to succeed.