Kieran Tuntivate: From Delaware to Tokyo and beyond
WILMINGTON, Del. — With gumption and dedication, Thai-American runner Kieran Tuntivate has accomplished what many have only dreamed: to compete in the Olympics. He shares, “Three years ago I never thought I’d be able to qualify [for the Olympics]…even a year ago, I didn’t know if I’d be able to, but I did it.” He continues, “I’m so proud to have qualified for the Olympics and competed. And I’m incredibly happy to be able to share the moment with my family and friends as well.”
Growing up in Bangkok, Thailand, his parents, older brother and Kieran eventually settled in the Wilmington, Delaware area. Kieran fondly remembers his time at the Charter School of Wilmington. In the Tuntivate family, school was very important. He elaborates, “Schoolwork came first and then free time. Between school and extracurriculars, such as sports, I was always busy but in a good way.” In that free time, Kieran played baseball, soccer, basketball and lacrosse. As a child, Kieran fondly recalls following his brother wherever he went and doing whatever he did. In fact, it was his brother who drew him to running.
From his brother, Kieran learned how fun running could be and how supportive the running community was. He says, “Once I joined the team, I made great friends who made me want to keep coming back to practice and track meets.” As a result, as he continued to run and compete, he improved. He broke and set many awesome records in high school and continued his running career at Harvard University.
While Kieran has, literally, run around the world, he still misses running in Delaware. From Bellevue State Park and the C & D Canal Trail to Brandywine State Creek Park, Kieran commends their great surfaces with plenty of space for his long runs. During those long runs, especially when training, Kieran focuses on his goals and remembers past races, which keep him motivated. However, he also enjoys running with other people, especially his teammates, and conversing. When Kieran is at home, his father will join alongside on his bike almost everyday.
Impressively, Kieran has competed in the 2018 Asian Games, placing third in the 10,000 meters; the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, placing first in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters; and of course, he recently represented Thailand in the 2021 Olympic Games, placing an admirable 23rd in the 10,000 meters.
For Kieran, being in the Olympics was an “amazing feeling that has left me hungry for more.” While the most exciting part of his Olympics experience was the race itself, he also was amazed by the village and its dining hall. He saw athletes, like NBA players, who he has admired and watched play on television.
As to his future, Kieran confides, “I have a big year coming up! I’ve already qualified for the World Athletic Championships in 2022 in Eugene, Oregon. Hopefully, I make the 5,000 as well. I also have the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games.” He goes on, “Long term, I hope to qualify for the World Championships in 2023 and have a better showing at the next Olympics in Paris.” Wherever Kieran’s running shoes may take him, we wish him much success. Kieran, your hometown will always be rooting for you!
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