KUKIMBIA || A Journey Through Kenyan Running Culture

Kukimbia - Swahili for “running”
In March of 2016, we traveled to the highlands of the Kenyan Rift Valley to film and photograph running culture. We stayed in the family homes of some of these athletes, and documented their daily lives as they prepared for international competition.
People often wonder what makes Kenyan runners among the best in the world. In preparation for this project, we came across many different opinions on this; ranging from diet, to genetics, to initiation ceremonies. However, working on this project directly with the athletes gave us different answers.
This film is an attempt to provide an experiential journey through Kenyan running culture. Special thanks to all of those that we stayed or spent time with. Your warmth and hospitality will always remain with us.
Love,
Spencer and Eva
(For best viewing experience, click on 'HD' and set to '1080p', enter full screen, and listen with headphones or speakers.)
Runners Narrating:
Paul Koech
Specialty: 3000 meters steeplechase
2004 Olympic bronze medalist
Three-time winner IAAF Diamond League
Personal Best of 7:54.31 minutes - third fastest of all-time
Micah Chemos
Specialty: 3000 meters steeplechase
2013 World Championships gold medalist
Four-time winner IAAF Diamond League
Leonard Komon
Specialty: long-distance road race
10K & 15K World Record Holder
Fastest half marathon debut ever
Commissioned by: Golazo (golazo.com)
Director/Cinematographer/Editor: Spencer MacDonald (halfmagicfilms.com)
Creative Director/Producer: Eva Verbeeck (evaverbeeck.com)
Coloring Consultant: AJ Molle (ajmolle.com)
Editing Consultant: Arista Gates
Production Company: Ambedo (ambedostudio.com)
Music:
"Obiero" - Ayub Ogada
"Weathervane" - Blue Dot Sessions
"Resonance of the Gods" - Anankalisto
"Solfeggio-417-518-Peace" - The Very Real Horst