He Ran 8,230 Miles Through 21 Countries in 518 Days to Prove a Point

As a Black man living in the UK, Deo Kato, activist and ultrarunner, had often faced racial discrimination, including being told to “go back to where you come from.” So, through this monumental journey, he sought to highlight humanity’s shared origin in Africa and challenge the narratives that divide people.

When Deo Kato arrived in London on December 22, 2024, he wasn’t just ending an 8,230-mile run from Cape Town. He was sharing a story far greater than the miles he’d logged.

He faced immense challenges. One of the most harrowing was his imprisonment in South Sudan for three weeks without clear explanation. “My driver and I were released from prison after we asked an inmate who was being released to contact my partner. No one knew where we were,” he recounted.

Yet, he kept moving forward. “I was hoping each new day would be better than the previous day.”

Even as he progressed closer to his goal, new obstacles arose. In Europe, Kato was frequently racially profiled as an illegal immigrant. Police stopped him regularly, demanding his passport and proof of legal entry. Despite holding a British passport, his crossings were scrutinized far more than others.

But he also encountered remarkable acts of kindness. In the South African desert, locals offered him meals and shelter. These moments reminded him of the inherent goodness in people and renewed his faith in humanity. “There is more human kindness than we know,” he reflected. “People are willing to help, especially if they understand your background and goal.”

However, his journey also highlighted systemic inequalities. Deo observed stark disparities in border crossings, noting that African borders were far more restrictive for Africans than for Europeans and Americans. This realization deepened his commitment to addressing these inequities and amplifying the message of his run.

As he reached London, Deo was met with an outpouring of support from fellow runners and fans who joined him for the final stretch. Completing the journey was not just a physical achievement but a testament to his mission to inspire change and foster unity.

Just four years earlier, Deoo had embarked on his 381 Days: Running for Justice campaign, opposing police brutality and racial discrimination. When asked about his next challenge, his immediate goal was refreshingly simple: “Sleep,” he said with a smile, after over 500 days of relentless running.

Despite the immense challenges, Deo affirmed that the journey was worth it. Through his run, he carried a message of resilience, unity, and the shared history of humanity.

For the running community and beyond, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can make by putting one foot in front of the other.

If you have your own inspiring running journey to share, post it on Instagram with #CarlethsRunnerStories and tag me @carlethkeys