[nl]

I'd never rule out the (huge) role genetics play. But the culture and environment have a role too.

You don't see many Kenyans dominating in cross country skiing or in road cycling which are both endurance sports where similar physical attributes are useful. Sports culture has a huge role.

OTOH, there have been projects to see how Kenyans do in those sports. The small Nike-supported cross country skiing project wasn't very successful[1], but the cycling project is showing some promise[2]. Genetics has a huge role.

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_Boit

[2] http://www.theguardian.com/environment/bike-blog/2013/apr/29...

[rjsw]

A "Kenyan" has won the Tour de France.

[nl]

So true... and kind of weird I didn't think to mention that!

I wonder if that counts as genetics or environment.

For those unfamiliar, the 2013 Tour De France winner Chris Froome was born in Kenya to British parents. He races under a British license and does not appear to share many genetic similarities to top Kenyan marathon runners. He's fairly tall (184cm), with significantly different facial features and skin tone.

OTOH, he has a pretty amazing ability to produce constantly high levels of power on long (30 minute+) climbs.