Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, has thrown his weight behind Kenya’s junior athletes, urging them to seize the moment and make a name for themselves at the upcoming CAA African U18/U20 Championships in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Athletics Kenya selected a team of 47 athletes to fly the nation's flag at the CAA (Confederation of African Athletics) U18/U20 Championships set to kick off on Wednesday and run till Sunday.
Speaking during a morale-boosting visit to the team’s residential camp at Moi Stadium, Kasarani, the 2022 Commonwealth Games champion challenged the youngsters to view the championships as a launchpad to greater heights. "This is a platform for you to make a name for yourself on a big stage."
"Look at this championship as an opportunity to market yourself; to get contracts out of it and to get a sponsorship deal that will sustain you," Omanyala said. Omanyala encouraged the athletes to stay composed amid the tension of major competition. “Everyone is anxious in the call room, but don’t let that throw you off. Stay focused and keep a positive mindset,” he said. “When you step on that track, have a beast mentality from the gun to the finish line, do not fear no one.”
Beyond the medals and records, Omanyala reminded the team to invest in their academics.
“One day, you will retire from competition. What will remain is what you have built for yourself outside the track. Education will carry you forward long after the spikes come off, so put effort into your studies too.”
The sprint star backed the team to post strong performances in Nigeria. "When you go there, focus on chasing medals, personal bests and records. Don't let any other things distract you from your goal," he said.
AK youth development chairman, Barnaba Korir, echoed Omanyala’s sentiments, tipping the squad to eclipse Kenya’s performance at the 2023 edition in Ndola, Zambia.
"This team is very strong and excited. We are always optimistic that each team that goes out will perform better than the previous time. This team has the potential to perform much better than in Zambia," Korir said.
At the Zambia show, Kenya claimed 14 medals in the U20 category (six gold, two silver and six bronze) to place third behind South Africa (30) and Nigeria (15).
In the U18 category, the country amassed 19 medals (six gold, seven silver and six bronze) to rank third behind South Africa (35) and Nigeria (19).
Korir confirmed that the team has already received essential gear ahead of their departure.
"The equipments like spikes were brought in on Saturday from thr US through Nike's support."
"Any other materials they require they will be receiving before they leave," Korir noted.
The team is slated to leave for Nigeria on today (Monday).
