What A Trip

I’ve been back five days and I’m still trying to comprehend everything that happened during the six weeks in Iten.

What stands out most is the progress we made in getting the Arete Scholarshipd Program up and running. The idea of the trip was to check things out, with a view to launching the project later in the year. But in the end, we managed to recruit four runners, billet them in furnished accommodation with everything they need, stock up on enough foodstuffs to keep them going for a few months, equip them with enough running kit, sort them with GPS watches and get them on Strava (important for remote coaching), plan out the training and goals, and most importantly, help them bond together and with others in Stazza's Stable, and really feel they have become a part of the Stable team.

Each runner, Nicodemus, Richard, and Hosea, now has the opportunity to concentrate on going after their respective running goals without having to worry about where the next meal is coming from. They know when the rains come tumbling down over the next few months, they’ll be dry and comfortable in their new home. Each runner is aware of every donation and they are beyond grateful.

I'd like to share a recent post from Nicodemus to the Stazza's Stable Strava group:

THANK YOU FROM THE ITEN POSSE

With utmost sincerity, I'm humbled to cordially say thank you for your donations and support on behalf of me, and my fellow colleagues. Your support through the Arete Sponsorship Programme will help each of us achieve personal bests, and explore athletic potential, develop and improve personal life, families and community, and to nurture support, and mentor many. We acknowledge the efforts put in, by our able coach, John (Stazza), Dori, Aoife, Natalie, and everyone else. Thank you, you are a blessing to us.

- Nicodemus

It’s going to be an exciting few months as we work on developing the Arete Program, prior to returning to Iten in October. We’ll keep everybody updated with how things are progressing and will post regular pictures and news from Iten.

Thank you for all the donations and support. The work’s just starting…!