• The event has attracted 643 athletes from 106 nations.
• Cherotich has 703 points, 97 points shy of the Olympic requirement of 800 with the qualification deadline set for June 30.
Image: HANDOUT
Kenya Judo Association treasurer David Busolo is confident Zeddy Cherotich will punch a ticket to the Paris Olympics during the World Judo Championships in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. between May 19 and 24.
The event has attracted 643 athletes from 106 nations.
Cherotich begins her campaign on May 22 in the Under-78kgs category (half heavyweight).
Busolo radiates confidence in Cherotich's ability to clinch gold, ensuring her automatic qualification to Paris.
"We're certain Zeddy will make it to the Olympics. A gold medal guarantees her a spot and we trust she won't falter," he said.
If she falls short, she could still head to Paris through the rankings.
Cherotich has 703 points, 97 points shy of the Olympic requirement of 800 with the qualification deadline set for June 30.
"If Zeddy doesn't secure automatic qualification in Abu Dhabi, she can still earn her ticket through points. She's currently at 703 points with 800 being the Olympic benchmark," added Busolo.
Cherotich will participate in a few competitions before the deadline, including the Marrakech Africa Open on June 1.
However, Busolo acknowledged the challenge that await the 26-year-old in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the significance of winning her first match.
"It won't be easy. With all athletes eyeing Olympic qualification, the competition will be fierce. Winning the first match will undoubtedly propel her closer to securing qualification," Busolo stressed.
Cherotich finished seventh at the African Games in Accra, Ghana, in March and Busolo observed: "Her performance at the African Games was exceptional."
In addition to Olympic qualification, lucrative prizes await, with the top finisher taking home Sh3.4m, the runner-up bagging Sh1.9m, and the second runner-up pocketing Sh1.1m.
Busolo, an international Level Two coach, highlighted Cherotich's influence in inspiring female athletes to embrace the sport.
"She's been a true motivator for many women. Her impact locally has encouraged numerous girls to take up judo," he said.
The federation has launched a programme to train young judokas aged 8-14 (cadets) and 15-17 (juniors).
"This programme will be instrumental in developing judo as we seek to send athletes to the 2026 Youth Olympics with an eye on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics," noted Busolo.
Meanwhile, he acknowledged the support received from the government, saying: "The government's support has been invaluable. We aim for judo to be among the top sports in the country, alongside athletics and volleyball."