Triathlete Joseph Okal is optimistic that the African Triathlon Cup will act as a catalyst in his push to secure a slot at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Okal added that training is going on well and he hopes to display an exemplary performance at the event set for November 26 in Kilifi.
“This is the first event I’m participating in since the Commonwealth Games. I hope I’ll be able to earn points from the event to help me qualify for the Olympics,” he said.
He added that hosting the event is a good step because, for the longest time, they have been going out of the country for competitions.
However, he noted that competing on home soil is not that easy because of the tough competition.
“We usually go out of the country for events but this time people are coming here...It's a good feeling. This is definitely an environment I’m used to but I know it’s going to be challenging and tough because of the weather. Countries like New Zealand and the USA are also coming to compete,” Okal said.
Meanwhile, fellow triathlete Aisha Nasser believes competing on home soil is an added advantage for her as she is familiar with the course having raced there before.
Like Okal, she expressed excitement about hosting the event adding that competing against other countries is a great feeling despite the competition that awaits them.
“I have raced in Kilifi before and I believe that will be an added advantage for me. It’s also exciting to host the event,” she said.
Nasser participated in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and she attested that the experience was an eye-opener for her. She revealed the Club Games stage served as a learning curve for her.
“That was the first time I was racing internationally and I must admit competition is good sometimes. I got to know my weak areas and vowed to work on them once I get back into the country,” she said.
The event has attracted over 25 Kenyan athletes and so far, nine countries have confirmed their participation.
