Kleos : You set a personal best (PB) at the Seville Marathon last February. What did you do to achieve this goal?
Harry : Consistency is key. It’s a constant balance between listening to your body and knowing when to push through the pain. It’s a battle against yourself. While in camp i will train on average 3 x per day to give you an idea of what my daily routine is : my biggest training will be early morning this is where i will push the most usually my second training will be gym workout and to finish i either go for easy run, aqua jog or stationery bike. Like every year, to optimize my training, I go to Kenya for a three-week altitude training camp the month before my race.
Kleos : Everyone seems to train in Kenya. Why? Is it really the land of champions?
Harry : [Laughs] Oh, absolutely! Kenya holds a special place in the world of distance running. It’s home to some of the greatest marathoners in history. Of course, there’s the legendary Eliud Kipchoge, whose legacy continues to inspire entire generations. And then there was Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record holder whom i had the pleasure to meet while training during my 2023 camp, who sadly passed away a year ago. He left an incredible mark on the sport. But beyond the champions, it has become a global training hub. There’s something truly inspiring about being surrounded by elite athletes, witnessing their dedication, resilience, and relentless pursuit of greatness.
Kleos : Where do you stay when you’re there?
Harry : I love staying at Lornah Kiplagat’s camp, the High Altitude Training Centre (HATC). They have everything an athlete needs: a fully equipped gym, a swimming pool, top-tier physiotherapy… But what really makes the place special is the atmosphere. You wake up surrounded by people who share the same passion, the same determination.
Kleos : And during your recovery periods, what do you do?
Harry : [Laughs] Ah, recovery! That’s sacred. I get massages, go to the sauna, sometimes do cryotherapy, and use recovery boots. It’s kind of my ritual. And I also take time to relax, chat with other athletes… It’s all about balancing taking care of your body and enjoying the moment.
Kleos : Does your training change at high altitude?
Harry : Oh, absolutely! At high altitude, you really have to respect the conditions and adapt. A good friend once told me, “Training at altitude is tough. Push yourself here, but save your best for when you’re back home.” This is not the time to show off.
The first week, I take it really easy, letting my body adjust. Then, little by little, I integrate track sessions, longer runs, tempo workouts… but always with caution.
Kleos : And finally, what’s your favorite thing about Kenya?
Harry : Without a doubt, it’s being in proximity the professional athletes. Getting to train alongside the best allows you to constantly learn, absorb knowledge but in order to do so you must stay open minded and curious. There is also this incredible sense of community. You see familiar faces throughout the year, and it creates unique bonds. It’s not just a training center, it’s a source of motivation and inspiration.
