The New York Marathon had just ended and Kenyans gathered at this bar in downtown Manhattan. They called it the ‘Lower East Side,” I believe. “Let’s meet in Donnybrook, Lower East Side.” That’s how Kenyans talk in New York. It’s an Irish bar, full to the rafters, a Kenyan flag against a window.
A bunch of Kenyans from the marathon viewing party had gotten here ahead just after Hellen Obiri’s chest had touched the ribbon. So they were loud and cheerful and generous. We sat outside with some media fellows, Alex Chamuda being one of them. When you sit with Mr Chamdwada you never have to reach for your wallet to get a drink because Kenyans are just crowding him, taking photos of him, and buying him and anyone he is with drinks.
