Brother Colm O'Connell

[sebastianc]

VU has a strong association with Ireland. And I think some here are hopeful that another outstanding scholar-athlete will be coming from Ireland to VU. Recall Mageean and English. There are two others for 2013, but that is another post. Some also know about the work of the legendary Brother Colm O'Connell and his achievements in the Rift Valley of Kenya. Think of David Rudisha. Recall Marcus' visit to Kenya, several years ago. I believe he spent time with Brother Colm. Unfortunately, I do not believe any Kenyan athletes have come to VU as a result. I know of at least one who Marcus had targeted, but he chose to go pro (Austine Choge). The link takes you to Brother Colm speaking to junior Irish athletes. David Rudisha is there, but he does not speak

Bro Colm Speaks Irish Jrs

 

[TheFoyeEffect]

Did not know that Marcus recruited Augustine Choge.

 

[novaclassof90]

Most of those kenyan guys go pro asap, it is a matter of economics for them. Win 1 10K road race over here as a pro and the guy/girl can feed their entire village for a year. The $$ is much more important than the education.

Great 1 hr. story done a few months ago in AXS TV's Dan Rather Reports on Brother Colm and the Rift Valley. The amount of talent there is staggering, beyond belief.

Easily, the toughest, deepest, and fastest middle distance to distance races every four years are the Kenyan National Olympic Trials.