Why Kenyan Runners Need More Than Speed to Win the Media Race
I just binge-watched SPRINT, the electrifying Netflix documentary series that delves into the intense rivalries among the world’s top sprinters. It was gripping not just because of the races, but because of the larger-than-life personalities that each athlete brought to the screen. These sprinters weren’t just athletes—they were storytellers, captivating us with their passion, grit, and rivalries.
As a die-hard fan of Diamond League races, I couldn’t help but wonder: what if there were a similar documentary series for middle and long-distance runners? Imagine the drama of a series featuring the top five runners from 800 meters to 10,000 meters! The only thing missing would be the Kenyan stars truly shining off the track as much as they do on it.
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Kenya is a powerhouse in middle and long-distance running, but our athletes often fall short when it comes to media presence. I’ve spent countless evenings on the edge of my seat, rooting for our Kenyan runners as they battle it out against the world’s best. But when the race is over and the spotlight shifts to post-race interviews, I find myself cringing. Their storytelling is lackluster, their presence meek, and the connection with the audience? Non-existent.
I believe Kenyan athletes urgently need media training, public speaking lessons, and personal branding. They’ve already conquered the track; now it’s time to conquer the world stage beyond it. Take Eliud Kipchoge, for example—the man is a legend not just because of his record-breaking marathons, but because he knows how to speak, engage, and inspire. Listening to Kipchoge wax lyrical about his races is pure bliss. His interviews are not just words; they’re a masterclass in connecting with audiences worldwide.
Kipchoge’s success in media isn’t accidental—it’s the result of a deliberate effort to build his brand. The current crop of Kenyan middle and long-distance athletes can learn from him. They must recognize that in today’s 24/7 media exposure, being exceptional on the track isn’t enough. They need to build a visible, engaging personal brand online and offline.
So, as we cheer on our athletes in the next big race, let’s also root for them to sprint towards media stardom. Because in the world of sports today, the race isn’t truly over until you’ve won both on and off the track.