In the crisp morning air of Kenya’s Rift Valley, where altitude is high and expectations even higher, a new wave of athletes is rising, carrying the fire sparked by Eliud Kipchoge and fanning it into a movement.

Kipchoge, the living legend of marathons, has become more than just a record-holder. He is now a symbol of discipline and mental resilience, inspiring a new generation of long-distance runners to chase greatness and to believe that no human is limited.

One of those athletes is Anthony Nzisa, a name that continues to rise with every race.

Defending Champion, Still Climbing

 

At the 2025 Lake Naivasha Easter Half Marathon, Anthony Nzisa defended his title with a commanding time of 1:04:09, proving once again that he’s not just a name to watch, but a force to be reckoned with.

Nzisa, who’s also a pastor, began his journey on the rugged trails of Ngong hills, a high-altitude region where training is tough, mornings are cold, and oxygen is a luxury. But it’s in these harsh conditions that champions are molded.

“Training in Nakuru pushed me beyond limits,” Nzisa shared. “I built endurance, strength, and most importantly, mental toughness. Kipchoge showed us that greatness starts with discipline, and I carry that into every run.”

The High-Altitude Advantage: Forging the Next Generation

Kenya’s high-altitude towns like Ngong Hills, Machakos Hills, Nakuru, Naivasha, Kapsabet, Kaptangat, Marakwet, and Iten have long served as training grounds for elite runners. At elevations above 1,800 meters, the body is forced to work harder, adapting, strengthening, and ultimately outperforming at sea level.

But the benefits go beyond physiology. The solitude and struggle of high-altitude training teach humility, patience, and focus.

Ask any of the elite runners who lined up for the Lake Naivasha Half Marathon, and you’ll hear the same message.

A Field Full of Fire: Nzisa, Cheruiyot, Langat & More

This year’s event was more than just Nzisa’s showcase. Kiprotich Cheruiyot and Elijah Kibet Langat were among the standout competitors, putting in stellar performances that reminded everyone why Kenya dominates the long-distance world.

“Every hill in Naivasha reminds me that the mind must be stronger than the body,” said Cheruiyot. “That’s the Kipchoge way.”

Beyond the Finish Line: A New Era Begins

The Lake Naivasha Easter Half Marathon is quickly becoming a launchpad for future stars. With altitude on their side and Kipchoge’s mindset guiding their training, these athletes are not just running; they’re rising.

Nzisa crossed the finish line in 1:04:09. He carried more than just speed; he carried the hopes of a new generation.

And with runners like Cheruiyot, Langat, and others right behind him, the future of Kenyan distance running looks not just promising, but unstoppable.