Town of Runners

A fascinating new film about the Ethiopian “Town of Runners”, Bekoji, is out in cinemas now.

Bekoji is a remote town in the southern highlands of the country from which an incredible number of the world's greatest distance runners have emerged; in fact, Olympic gold medallists Kenenisa Bekele and Tirunesh Dibaba, both from Bekoji, won 5000m and 10,000m doubles at the Beijing Games in 2008.

“Town of Runners” is a feature documentary by award-winning director Jerry Rothwell about the young athletes born and raised in Bekoji who hope to emulate their local heroes and compete on the world’s stage. Filmed over four years, the film tells the story of two young girls living in a rural town as they try to run their way to a different life.

Narrated by their friend Biruk, it follows their highs and lows as they try to become professional athletes. Through their struggle, the film gives a unique insight into the ambitions of young Ethiopians living between tradition and the modern world and follows their fortunes as they move from school track to national competition and from childhood to adulthood.

To see the trailer and find out more about the film including screenings near you, visit the official website: http://www.townofrunners.com/