Fifteen promising long-distance runners will line up this Sunday at the Betika Iten Road Race - 15km, proudly supported by the Kevin McCool Memorial Fund, managed by DBA Africa. This marks the second group of athletes backed by the fund, which was created to honour Kevin McCool, a dedicated UK army officer and passionate runner who tragically lost his life in Kenya in 2023.

In Kenya, athletics is more than just a sport – it’s often a lifeline and seen as an opportunity. It offers young people hope, purpose, and the dream of following in the footsteps of champions like Eliud Kipchoge and Faith Kipyegon. But for many, that dream is often out of reach. Entry fees, transport costs to competitions, and basic running gear are simply unaffordable. Without regular opportunities to race, even the most talented athletes can be left behind.

The Kevin McCool Fund helps break these barriers by giving committed runners the chance to compete, grow, and be seen. It’s a vital part of sports development in Kenya, offering practical support where it’s needed most.

The Betika Iten Road Race, taking place this Sunday in Iten – known globally as the Home of Champions – will attract some of the country’s top talent. Thanks to the fund, 15 emerging athletes will now get their shot to race, each wearing a special McCool Running Vest to honour Kevin’s legacy and run in his memory.

The fund is about more than just covering race fees. It represents the belief that sport is a tool for change, and forms part of DBA Africa’s mission to change lives through sport. Whether it’s through youth empowerment, access to competition, or creating fair chances, the impact is real and growing.

It also strengthens Kenya’s wider running ecosystem. Many race organisers face challenges when unregistered runners show up hoping for a last-minute slot. This puts pressure on event logistics and threatens long-term planning. The McCool Fund helps ease this pressure by ensuring selected athletes are fully registered, prepared, and ready to compete, professionally and with dignity.

This Sunday’s race is just one chapter in what we hope will be a long and meaningful story. DBA Africa and the Kevin McCool Memorial Fund are committed to supporting more runners across Kenya and East Africa, helping them take the next step on their journey from grassroots to greatness.

Sport has the power to change lives. Support DBA Africa in our efforts to change lives through Sport.