At the KATA Running Camp and KATA Potato Farm's first official running camp, KATA 01 in Kapcherop, Coach Philemon Kipruto is leading a dynamic mix of rising teenage talent, competitive middle-distance athletes, and seasoned marathoners. Training programs are carefully balanced between speed, endurance, and tactical racing skills, ensuring that every athlete—whether 16 or 38—continues to progress.
Philemon also operates KATA 09 in Tenden, just a few kilometers away, giving him the unique advantage of managing two high-performance training groups within close proximity. Together, these two camps not only produce top-level athletes but also farm six acres of KATA potatoes, directly contributing to the program’s sustainability and providing the “Fuel of Champions”.
What is KATA?
The Kenya Athletics Training Academy (KATA) was founded by Bob Anderson in Thika, Kenya, in 2019 as a hub for developing elite Kenyan runners. The program has since grown into a nationwide network, uniquely combining world-class training camps with sustainable agriculture.
Since May 16, 2025, KATA has launched 30 mrunning camps across Kenya, plus 20 independent KATA Potato Farms not directly attached to camps. This brings the total to 50 KATA potato farms—the backbone of the program’s long-term sustainability.
Known as “The Fuel of Champions”, KATA potatoes provide both nutrition for athletes and revenue to support training operations. As of today, there are 108 acres of KATA potatoes planted or being planted, directly supporting more than 400 KATA athletes across the country.
KATA’s mission is clear: produce champions who can succeed locally and internationally while building a self-sustaining model that benefits athletes, communities, and the Kenyan running legacy.
Standout Athletes & Performances
Men:
• Leonard Pkorir (19) – 10km: 29:11 – Emerging as a formidable road racer with a strong endurance base.
• Enock Tanui (16) – 3000m Steeplechase: 9:02 – Exceptional hurdle technique with early signs of national team potential.
• Alan Mwetich (22) – 21km: 65:12 – Balanced speed and stamina for half marathon success.
• Shadrack Plimo (19) – 1500m: 3:54 – Targeting a sub-3:50 at the next meet.
• Kelvin Kibiwott (20) – 5000m: 15:20 – Building speed endurance ahead of cross-country season.
• Dennis Kosgei (23) – 21km: 64:53 – Looking to sharpen his closing kick in the half marathon.
• Evans Kemboi (23) – 3000m: 9:24 – Solid short-to-mid distance competitor.
• Alex Kimutai (22) – 10km: 30:47 – On track to break 30 minutes soon.
• Doland Kimaru (29) – 42km: 2:17:50 – Pushing for a sub-2:15 marathon.
• Denis Kipchirchir (22) – 1500m: 4:08 – Focused on tactical improvements.
• Hosea Kiplagat (38) – 42km: 2:12 – Veteran leader bringing discipline and race strategy to the group.
Ladies:
• Mercy Jebichie (24) – 10km: 36:04 – Strong road race specialist, consistently targeting podiums.
• Sarah Chepkemoi (24) – 5000m: 18:16 – Improving strength and lap consistency.
• Mercy Jepchumba (23) – 10km: 37:31 – Steady improvement with better pacing strategies.
• Joan Jepchirchir (27) – 21km: 86:18 – Determined to drop her half marathon time through endurance gains.
KATA 01 exemplifies the Academy’s mission: developing champions through structured training, mentorship, and a team-first culture—backed by the sustainable support of KATA Potato Farms. With more than 400 athletes, 108 acres of potatoes, and two camps farming six acres between them, KATA is proving that sport and agriculture can grow champions together.