The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is set to enhance Kenya’s reputation as a premier athletics training destination through a new partnership with athletics training camps across the country. This initiative aims to attract international athletes and sports enthusiasts, leveraging Kenya’s esteemed status as a powerhouse in long-distance running.
At a recent awards luncheon for the inaugural Kapsabet Half Marathon, KTB CEO Ms. June Chepkemei highlighted the board’s commitment to positioning Kenya as the ultimate training ground for athletes worldwide. With Kenya’s impressive track record in producing world-class marathoners, the KTB sees a significant opportunity to capitalize on the influx of international visitors seeking to train alongside Kenya’s elite runners.
“We have observed a growing number of international athletes coming to Kenya to scout for talent or to engage in training programs, either for physical health or competitive purposes,” Chepkemei stated. “This trend presents a unique opportunity for us to establish Kenya as a premier training destination.”
Chepkemei challenged training camp owners, particularly in regions known for their high-altitude training facilities such as the Rift Valley, Central Kenya, and Ukambani, to upgrade their facilities to meet international standards. By improving the quality of these camps, KTB aims to enhance the overall experience for trainees and solidify Kenya’s status as a top choice for athletes from around the globe.
Kenya’s high-altitude training camps, including renowned locations such as Iten, Kaptagat, and Kapsabet, have long been incubators for the country’s running talent. These camps benefit from the unique combination of high elevation, rigorous training environments, and experienced coaching, all of which contribute to Kenya’s outstanding marathon success.
The KTB plans to collaborate with organizers of major annual marathons, such as the Standard Chartered Marathon and the Eldoret City Marathon, to draw international participants. By aligning with these events, KTB hopes to create a more robust sports tourism sector that complements the country’s already rich tradition of long-distance running.
“As a destination celebrated for its marathon prowess, Kenya has a fantastic opportunity to partner with organizers of our major marathons to attract global participants,” Chepkemei remarked. “We aim to position Kenya as not only a training hub but also a key player in the international marathon circuit.”
Furthermore, Chepkemei emphasized the synergistic potential of combining sports and tourism. The KTB will develop tailored packages that highlight attractions near major sporting events, thus offering visitors a comprehensive experience that goes beyond athletics. This strategy is expected to boost the local economy and provide a broader array of experiences for tourists.
The Kapsabet Half Marathon, which marked its debut this year, was celebrated for its success in attracting over 1,000 participants. Chepkemei praised the event’s organizers for creating a platform that fosters young talent and promotes local enthusiasm for running. She advocated for the introduction of more such races across the country to serve as talent discovery forums and to support the sport’s growth and sustainability.
Chepkemei’s vision for the KTB underscores the potential of sports tourism to transform Kenya’s athletic landscape. By enhancing training facilities, collaborating with marathon organizers, and promoting the country’s natural and cultural attractions, KTB aims to establish Kenya as a global leader in both athletics and tourism.
As Kenya continues to attract international runners eager to tap into the secrets of its running success, the KTB’s initiative promises to further elevate the country’s status on the global sports stage while fostering local talent and economic growth.
