The small town of Thika is alive with excitement today. Athletes, coaches, families, and even farmers have gathered at the Kenya Athletics Training Academy (KATA) grounds for the 5th edition of the Double Road Race—a unique competition that, in just five years, has become a symbol of innovation in Kenya’s running culture.
Unlike conventional races, the Double Road Race challenges athletes to complete two segments with a rest break in between. Final standings are determined by combined times. It’s a test of speed, endurance, and resilience that forces runners to rethink race strategy and dig deeper than ever before.
The Birth of a Vision
The idea for KATA was born thousands of miles away. Bob Anderson, American publisher and lifelong runner best known as the founder of Runner’s World magazine, was inspired by the immense talent in Kenya but also saw structural gaps that held many athletes back.
Anderson’s vision was radical: create a training academy in Kenya that produced champions while also empowering communities. From this dream, KATA was founded in Thika—and one of its cornerstones was introducing the Double Road Race format to Kenyan soil.
Enter Jimmy Muindi: From Star to Mentor
No story of KATA is complete without Jimmy Muindi. The six-time Houston Marathon champion and former coach of world record holder Patrick Makau embodies the blend of experience and inspiration KATA thrives on.
From steeplechase junior champion at the 1992 World Juniors in Seoul to victories in Rotterdam and Honolulu, Muindi’s career reads like a running epic. As a coach, his highest moment came when Makau broke the marathon world record.
“The double tests body, mind, and spirit,” Muindi says. “It forces athletes to dig deep in ways they are not used to. That is how champions are made.”
Coach John Matheri’s Guiding Hand
While Muindi brought international pedigree, respected Kenyan coach John Matheri rooted the project locally. Known for discovering village talent and molding disciplined athletes, Matheri has helped weave community runners into the Double Road Race fabric.
“Returning for the second run after your body is tired teaches resilience,” Matheri explains. “That is what separates ordinary runners from great champions.”
His philosophy has given countless young runners not only a chance to compete, but also recognition and hope.
The Power of Exposure
One of the Double Road Race’s most innovative features is its commitment to visibility. Every runner’s time—first or last—is posted on the official website. For Kenyan athletes who rarely enjoy digital exposure, this is game-changing.
“Even if you are the last, your time is posted,” Muindi emphasizes. “Managers and sponsors around the world can see it. That exposure is priceless.”
In an age where social media visibility can launch careers, Anderson’s decision to democratize exposure has made the Double Road Race a vital platform.
A Vibrant Turnout in Thika
This year’s participation proves the format’s momentum. Squads from across the region have confirmed attendance, including Kata 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16 (with an impressive 16 runners), 17, 18, 20, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31, and 32.
Adding further depth, farmers’ groups F20, F24, and F31 are also present—evidence of KATA’s reach beyond athletics and into the heart of Kenyan communities.
As one organizer shared in a WhatsApp update: “What an amazing turnout we are going to have.”
Beyond Competition: Building a Culture
For runners, today is more than a race. It’s a chance to test themselves, mark progress, and belong to something larger. For KATA, it’s proof of concept: grassroots blending with elite, communities meeting global culture, and tradition reimagined through innovation.
The Double Road Race, once a bold experiment by an American visionary, has now become part of Kenya’s running story.
Looking Ahead
Five editions in, the Double Road Race is no longer a novelty—it’s becoming an institution. Under the Thika sun, young runners, seasoned coaches, and cheering farmers weave together a tapestry of resilience and hope.
Anderson’s ambition, supported by Kenyan mentors like Muindi and Matheri, is for KATA to nurture athletes from primary schools to the world stage. With support from federations, sponsors, and government, the academy could become a model far beyond Kenya.
For now, as the second leg unfolds, Thika celebrates not just a race but the journey of an idea that dared to be different. Kenya’s running legacy isn’t only about medals—it’s about reimagining what running can be, and building a future where every stride counts.