Posted: April 25, 2007

Athletics: Ithaca's Kip Keino Mile Attracts World Class Field

Men's Race Includes Nine Sub-four-minute Milers from Five Countries Ithaca, N.Y.(April 25, 2007)-A star-studded international field is expected in Ithaca, May 13, for the inaugural Kip Keino Mile, a race that honors the legendary Kenyan runner for his accomplishments as an athlete and unsung humanitarian. The men's race is arguably the finest mile/1500 meter field assembled outdoors in the U.S. so far this year, including nine sub-four-minute milers from five countries. Headlining the field are 2006 Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Nick Willis, and versatile American, Anthony Famiglietti, winner of the 2007 U.S. 8k championships in New York City. The women's field boasts nine top runners from the U.S., Canada and Ethiopia, including an NCAA champion and a world junior silver medalist. "I'm really impressed with the field that's been assembled in the first year for this event," said Weldon Johnson, elite race coordinator. "The strength of the field is a testament to the admiration and respect these racers have for Kip Keino. He's a remarkable athlete and humanitarian." The Kip Keino Weekend, May 11-13, celebrates Keino's life and work. The event includes elite and citizen races, The Borg Warner Health and Fitness Expo and an evening banquet saluting Kip Keino as guest of honor. The weekend also inaugurates the Kip Keino Foundation (USA), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Keino's legacy and his humanitarian efforts in Kenya. "Kip Keino is inspiration. We're thrilled to support his work with an event of this caliber," said Michelle Thompson, executive co-director of the Kip Keino Foundation. "We look forward to hosting all these talented runners and sharing Dr. Keino's message of personal excellence, empowerment and peace."