Why Rift Valley Has So Many Winners

Kenyans have won the Boston Marathon, considered the most important, more than 70% of the time in the last 20 years. It is even more incredible if you consider that all those champions come from a specific region - the Rift Valley. What's behind this extraordinary success?

Although there's no definitive evidence that genetics play a role, we do recognize other definite influences. First off, the geographical advantage. The Rift Valley sits at a high altitude, which enhances endurance and lung capacity due to lower oxygen levels, giving athletes a significant advantage when they compete at lower elevations.

Next is diet. Kenyans often consume "ugali," a dish made from maize flour and water. This high-carbohydrate food is a staple in their diet, contributing to maximizing glycogen stores, and providing abundant energy for running. This is especially vital for long-distance runners who must sustain consistent effort for several hours.

Finally, a culture of specialization has emerged. Kenyan runners start early and become experts at it. Humans are complex and can master specific skills by embracing their environment. In this case, Kenyans have harnessed their natural and cultural advantages to dominate long-distance running.

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