Emmanuel Kibet is one of seven children in his family. He was born in Moiben, Kenya, which he has called home for close to 29 years. Although he has never lived outside Kenya, Emmanuel has done extensive traveling in eight countries and speaks several languages, including Kalenjin, his first.

Emmanuel attended the Tachasis Primary School and Kabelyo Primary School in Kenya, where he received his KCPE (Kenya Certificate of Primary Education). Upon graduation, Emmanuel went on to the Lelan and Chebororwa schools in Kenya, where he received his KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education). Shortly thereafter, he worked at home, where he managed livestock and farmed. He also had the unique experience working as both a butcher and a firefighter until he had the chance to fly to the United States to begin pursuing his running career.

Emmanuel started running only six years ago. Emmanuel began his running career in April 2001 at the Mosop Training Camp, where he would wake up at 4:30 A.M. every morning and join other athletes in an extensive training program. He placed ninth in the Eldoret half-marathon but established his best personal time of 1:03:42. From there he traveled to Germany for competitions and later to Singapore, Mumbai and Hong Kong. Most recently, he was invited to Michigan for road races and to the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon in Canada.

He specifically enjoys long-distance running and works closely with his running coach, Philip Maiyo, who recommended the Blue Planet Run to him. Emmanuel felt compelled to apply to the run after looking at its Web site. The thrill of meeting strangers, traveling across the globe and running for such an extended period of time inspired him to apply. Emmanuel is currently training for the Run twice a day.

Aside from an active running career, Emmanuel enjoys reading novels and educating himself as much as he can on the Internet. He has a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, geese and peacocks. He believes participating in the Blue Planet Run will touch many souls, including his own.