Running with the Kenyans: Discovering Secrets of Fastest People on Earth

After years of watching Kenyan athletes win the world's biggest long-distance races, Adharanand Finn set out to discover what made them so fast—and whether he could keep up. He moved with his family to Iten, the running capital of the world, to investigate barefoot school journeys, local foods, altitude, and other possible training advantages. The journey culminates in Finn testing his own limits by running his first marathon across the Kenyan plains. This edition includes a new chapter covering the 2012 Olympics. The book, written by Adharanand Finn, is a 320-page paperback (Hand edition) published by Faber & Faber.

In addition to the immersive storytelling, the work has been recognized with notable accolades, including the Sunday Times Sports Book of the Year, a shortlist for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award, and a Best New Writer win at the British Sports Book Awards.

The book presents a vivid portrait of Iten and its runners, combining travel narrative with firsthand exploration of the routines, culture, and conditions that shape elite long-distance performance.

Keniaanse hardloopverhalen

• Investigates why Kenyan runners excel at long distance
• Author moves to Iten for in-depth immersion
• Explores barefoot schooling, local diet, high altitude
• Ends by running his first marathon on Kenyan plains
• New chapter covers the 2012 Olympic Games