Junior international hurdler David Saruni says representing Kenya at next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan remains his main target.
The 400m hurdler is currently a student at Western Kentucky University in the US where he is studying for a Degree in Computer Science.
“My aspirations have been to be an Olympian and the coronavirus pandemic — which led to the shifting of Olympics from this year to 2021 — gave me plenty of time to prepare,” he told the Star in an interview on Sunday.
“I have a plan with my coach, Paul Sterling, that I’m following and I hope everything will be as planned. Making Team Kenya again has always been at the back of my mind.”
Saruni, a former student at Mogonga PAG High School in Kisii County represented the country at the World Under 18 Championships in Nairobi in 2017 where he captained Team Kenya. He was, however, disqualified in the semifinals due to line infringement.
Saruni, 20, added that he is working hard to maintain the legacy of his role model, 2015 World Champion, the late Nicholas Bett.
“I looked up to him and he inspired me to be a hurdler. I want to dominate hurdles in his honour. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.
He said the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted his training but remains hopeful that it will be contained soon.
He added that following the suspension of National Collegiate Athletics Association activities, it’s hard for him to focus on his program.
“All I can do is some runs, a lot of core exercises and related stuff to keep me in good form as I wait for things get back to normal. My focus is to keep improving,” added Saruni.
He, however, said his studies have not been affected and he is looking forward to graduating next year.
“My studies are not really affected as my school shifted to online schooling. I’m really grateful for this opportunity to get an education while doing what I like doing most,” he added.
Saruni paid tribute to immediate former Mogonga PAG High School principal Haron Onchong’a for supporting him achieve his dream.
“Mogonga gave me a platform to expose my talent. Mogonga will always be home to me. Onchong’a stood by me when I was getting ready for WU18. I made it to Team Kenya through his efforts and I’m always indebted to him,” added Saruni who has also represented his university in 4x400m, 600m and 800m races.
He asked upcoming athletes training at Mogonga to remain disciplined and recommended the institution to upcoming athletes. Saruni also asked stakeholders to support the camp.
