Day 4: Track Tuesday

(Track) Tuesday!

Find any track in the Iten/Eldoret area on a Tuesday morning and you are sure to witness the most organized circus of runners, running in dirt circles. Arriving to the scene makes you stop in your tracks and soak in the amazement at the sight of the single file dance of long legs, the beat of synchronized cadence, and a rainbow of colors in clothing and skin. Just like faith…running is a universal language.

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Most of the RTR team hopped on bodabodas (mopeds) with local drivers to Kameryn Track to watch, engage, and share our medical services and faith with various teams present. Danna joined the Kip’s professional athletes of Team KIPRUN Iten for the warm up to the track and a workout of 10x 600 with 1min recoveries.

To have the honor to run with in Kenya, alongside the most talented and hardworking runners in the world is something I (Danna) fully embraced. Running at 8,000 ft is not the same lung language as Iowa sea level but being in that moment with such gracious and welcoming athletes was a gift and a memory I will never forget. God often presents opportunities that may seem like challenges but beyond the dirt and dust are simply incredible experiences if we are willing to say “yes” and follow the line and cadence of a teammate. Holding close the word “Free” for 2025…I had to smile as I asked KIPRUN teammate what the pace would be for our 600’s and she simply replied “free pace!”. God has humor too.


Beth captured images, videos, and fully embraced the sights and sounds of the track. A woman of strong faith and just as strong legs in her ultra trail racing, she brought so much spirit and enthusiasm to each KIPRUN teammate. She is officially their favorite cheerleader and “Mzungi” (white friend).

Viola and Coach Kip, minutes after her total of 14k without on the track at 5:30min/mile descending down to nearly 5:00/mile. She will race Barcelona Marathon on March 16. Watch for her in the years to come!

We can’t put into words the beauty God gave us this morning, witnessing these athletes push themselves physically with such grace and strength. They make it look easy, but trust me, it’s not. Kenyan running isn’t fancy. It isn’t high tech. It’s right foot, left foot, dirt layer covered legs and face, 200-400-600-800 markings with rocks and sticks, and if you try to step inside the “lane”…you die. Just kidding. You would definitely crack an ankle falling into the deep drop off inside lane one. Ultimately, these athletes do the little things the right way. They use the resources they have. They walk with humility and without judgment of visitors. They run with joy and they run the race God has set out for them. What a gift and dream experience to be a part of that today.


More Tuesday recap to come: St. Patrick’s School, Dinner at Kip and Nelly’s house.