Four-time world champion Lornah Kiplagat launches magical coaching App

The Vice-Chancellor of Strathmore University Dr Vincent Ogutu present a T-Shirt indicating Vice Chancellor's Run to Lorna Kiplagat during the launch of Lorna Sports Coaching Programme and App at Strathmore University Business school on Friday, May 17, 2024. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Four-time world champion Lornah Kiplagat has partnered with Strathmore University to promote her newly launched Lornah Sports Coaching Programme and App which were unveiled in Nairobi on Friday.

The three-time Olympian is among the high profile former athletes who will grace the fourth edition of the Vice Chancellor's Run slated for Strathmore University on May 25.

While unveiling her magical sports coaching program, Kiplagat said the App is as a result of an 11-year study and extensive research which involved high level and respected scientists.

She assured the App, available for Android and IOS gadgets, is well fortified in cases of security threats from hackers and viruses.

"I have come from far and I'm grateful to the far we are going, I see a future with this App, from it I feel I was put in the world for a purpose which is definitely to change people's lives. It's all about giving back to the society," Kiplagat said.

The App, which has a 14 window trial period, before a Sh2,500 charge per month or a Sh27,000 annual fees, has amazing features including seamless integration, community engagements, virtual running coaching, customised nutritional planning, strength and injury prevention exercises and weekly community runs.

"We are basically targeting people and recreational runners in urban areas hence the pricing stated," stated Kiplagat.

The Vice Chancellor's Run is targeting over 500 athletes. Categories to be contested in the challenge include the 5km, 10km and the 21km races.

The registration proceeds will go towards funding needy students who would loved to study at Strathmore.

"The participants can run or walk, the whole idea in the competition is to finish the race," Strathmore University Vice Chancellor Vincent Ogutu said during the partnership event with Kiplagat.

The 21km category will start at the Strathmore Sports Complex in Madaraka then snake its way to the Langata Road, before proceeding to the Galleria Mall and back on  a similar route to the finish line at the Sports Complex.

"Top athletes will get exciting prizes, in both men and women categories," Ogutu said.

When asked how they feel about their partnership with Kiplagat, Ogutu said: "We are delighted to work with her, Lornah is the one who designed our uniform for the Kenya Hockey Union women's Premier League, the outfits are amazing.

"This partnership now presents us with an amazing App that will coach us in our runs as well as help us to manage our dietary requirements and recommendations. The great thing is that the App understands our local cuisine."

David Karimi, a marathon enthusiast while reviewing the App said: "The personalised training plan from Lornah's App was a game-changer for my marathon preparation. The team's expertise and support helped me achieve a new personal best!"

Victor Omondi a community runner, highlighted: "Joining the weekly group runs introduced me to a community of inspiring runners. It's not just about running; it's about growing together."

Sandra Wangechi, an aspiring runner said: "As a beginner, I was initially intimidated by running, but the beginner's journey program was the perfect start. The step-by-step guidance and encouragement from Lornah and her team have been incredible. I’m now confidently training for my first 5K!"