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Road to Discovery
The energy has been building. For months, thousands of children
in Kenya have waited for the day to arrive. And now it's here.
On January 18, kids five to 18 will gather at the Eldoret Sports
Center in the Rift Valley to take part in one of the largest running
events the world has ever seen, the Fila Discovery Races. Now
in its 11th year, the event is one of the best ways for talented
runners to capture the attention of the Fila Team coaches and,
eventually, secure a spot on the team. The Discovery Races are
the first important step on the road to the Fila Team and the
chance to follow in the footsteps of legendary Discovery runners
including Joseph Chebet, Robert Cheruiyot, Margaret Okayo, Sammy
Korir, and Elijah Lagat. Fila coaches closely monitor young athletes
as they grow older. Once they're grown, promising athletes compete
in the Discovery Half Marathon and the top finishers are invited
to join Discovery. This year, 500 adult athletes will compete
in the January 25th half marathon.
Another exciting Discovery event this year is the
dedication of the program's newest training camp. Discovery head
coach Dr. Gabriele Rosa, Fila Team athletes, Kenyan dignitaries,
students, and residents of the Rift Valley will attend the opening
of the new camp in Kapsait. With its rigorous terrain and high
altitude of 9,842 feet above sea level, Kapsait is the most
challenging training camp in the world. Runners trained at Kapsait
will be more than prepared to take on every challenge that comes
their way.
Discovery Kenya
Led by Dr. Rosa, Fila's Discovery Kenya program provides many of
the country's top runners with the training and support they require
to compete on an international level. Without the support of
Discovery, Kenyan runners often have to leave their country to get
the training they need to compete. Fila and Dr. Rosa make it
possible for talented runners can train close to home. Winnings from
international competitions have helped Fila Team runners turn harsh
financial situations around for their families and villages. Winning
just one race can give a Kenyan runner the resources he or she needs
to provide everything from running water to education for the people
in their village. In just the last two years, Fila Team members have
won 52 international marathons.
Imagine yourself in full Discovery mode. The official
Fila Team uniform is available through our online store--and
in running shops around the world.
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