“Stepping onto Kamariny Stadium track alongside the world’s best was inspiring. If you want a trip where you appreciate every single second, sign up right now!”
Name: Tom Cassidy
Age: 27
Occupation: Distance Runner
Country of Residence: UK
Camp Attended: June 2015 Kenya Experience Camp
Personal Best: Marathon – 3:15:05 (Chester Marathon)
Distances: 1500m & 3000m track up to the Marathon
From Dublin to the Home of Champions
I started running properly in 2010, taking on the Dublin Marathon as the first of four marathons to date. My best marathon performance so far was 3:15:05 in Chester. While I’ve really enjoyed switching things up on the track with 1500m and 3000m races, 26.2 miles will always hold a special place in my heart.
When I began taking a serious interest in distance running, it was impossible to ignore that the best marathoners in the world were all Kenyan. After reading endless articles about Iten and seeing top British and European athletes head there for altitude blocks, training in Kenya suddenly felt achievable.
I found The Kenya Experience, became determined to book a spot, and used the camp as the ultimate kickstart for my autumn marathon training block!
Life on the Trails: Singore Forest & Kamariny Track
Training in Iten was a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The High Altitude Training Centre (HATC) provided the ideal base – stunning surroundings, incredible food, and a warm, welcoming team.
The daily training offered unbelievable access to legendary running spots:
- Singore Forest Trails: Running through peaceful, scenic woodland trails on the soft red dirt.
- Kamariny Stadium: Watching world-class athletes float around the famous dirt track, and then stepping onto the lane to complete our own workout alongside them. Intimidating at first, but deeply inspiring!
- Warm Community Spirit: From local runners on the trails to children running out to say “How are you?”, the genuine friendliness of the local community stays with you long after you leave.
“The other runners on camp were like-minded people of all abilities. We got on so well that it felt like we’d known each other for years, not just two weeks!”
World-Class Guidance & Lifelong Memories
Willy Songok looked after our group exceptionally well, while lead coach Hugo offered tailored, expert advice to every athlete on camp, regardless of their pace or background.
The entire journey, from initial booking through to post-camp support, was seamless. It gave me a unique insight into why Kenyan runners are so dominant, provided lifelong friends, and kick-started my training block in the best way possible.
Inspired by Tom’s Story?
Kick-Start your training block with an unforgettable trip to Iten.
