The Anglo-Ethiopian Society
Film - Town of Runners + Q&A with coach Sentayehu and director Jerry Rothwell
Sunday 11th November 2012
Hove Methodist Church, Portland Road, Hove, East Sussx, BN3 5DR
6:30pm, Free but donation expected - all proceeds go to supporting work in Ethiopian town of Bekoji where the film is set.
The screening has been organised by the Hove Methodist Church Film Club.
Town of Runners is a feature documentary about young runners from Bekoji - an Ethiopian highland town which has produced some of the world's greatest distance athletes, including Tirunesh Dibaba, Kenenisa Bekele and Derartu Tulu. Tiki Gelana, who won the 2012 Olympic Women’s Marathon, is also from Bekoji.
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 over three years 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.
Funded by ITVS and Channel 4 Britdoc, Town of Runners is a feature documentary by an award-winning director Jerry Rothwell (Donor Unknown, Heavy Load) 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 follows their fortunes as they move from school track to national competition and from childhood to adulthood.
80mins film followed by a Q&A with the legendary coach Sentayehu and director Jerry Rothwell.
More information can be found on the Town of Runners and Dogwoof Films websites.