National 400m hurdles champion Wiseman Were is hoping to catapult the 4x400m relay team to a podium finish at the World Relays at Championships scheduled for May 4-5 at the Thomas Robinson Stadium in the Bahamas.
Were said Kenya has what it takes to pull off a podium finish on the global stage as the Bahamas fast approaches
“Considering the kind of individual talent we have; combined with the teamwork, I don’t see anything that will stop us from finishing on the podium.”
The hurdler, however, said they will need a lot of support from both Athletics Kenya and the government to achieve their targets.
“ This team badly needs exposure and only AK and the government can help on this end. However, as individuals, we can propel ourselves to the podium. We urge Kenya to prioritise sending a huge contingent to these events to enhance our chances of success.”
Were added: “With adequate support and opportunities, I am confident we can deliver outstanding performances. It’s crucial to invest in sprints as an alternative source of medals both at the continental and global stage.”
He emphasised the crucial role of teamwork in relay events, underscoring the collective effort required for success.
“When it comes to relays, it’s all about teamwork and we have no choice but to embrace this. This time, we are more inspired than ever before and we intend to shock the world,” he added.
In the gruelling 400m hurdles in the Africa Games in Accra last month, Were crossed the line fourth in a time of 49.10 seconds. Despite missing out on a medal narrowly, Were’s performance was a glimpse of what to expect in the Bahamas next month.
“Ahead of the upcoming competitions, I remain focused and dedicated to my training regimen and I hope to leave a mark in the Bahamas. Irrespective of the challenges, I have faced, I remain focused on the sport and I am sure soon I will break even.”
Were helped Kenya to a bronze medal in the 4 x 400m relay during the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. “I have made progress in my training and I’m grateful for every step of the process. I feel well-prepared for the upcoming challenge but I will keep training hard ahead of Bahamas.”
“We must be aggressive and consistent ahead of Bahamas,” he concluded.
