Elkanah Chemelil says he will use the experience he will gain from the Miramas Camp in France to fight for a place on the national team for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Chemelil and Winnie Chepng’etich were in the team that visited the camp last April and returned to the city last week for further specialised training.
The 18-year-old also said he is looking forward to next year’s World Relays Championships, where he hopes to gain more experience.
“The last time we went to Miramas Camp, I learned quite a lot…This time around, I just want to improve on my finishing and I will be good to go. I want to remain focused and work hard so that I can be ready for the Olympics,” Chemelil said.
He added: “I also want to test myself in next year’s World Athletics Relays to make sure I am fully fit and ready for Olympics.”
Chemelil said he admires world and Olympic 800m champion, Emmanuel Korir and his achievements have always motivated him to keep pushing.
Chemelil said he strongly believes with hard work, he can emulate Korir to become either world or Olympic champion.
“Korir inspires me to run well. Watching his clips when in action motivates me. He is my greatest motivation,” Chemelil said.
Meanwhile, Athletics Kenya (AK) youth development chairman Barnaba Korir has said they will use local competitions and World Under-20 Championships in Cali as a yardstick to select athletes for the Miramas Camp in France.
He said the main aim of the camp is to ensure the youngsters gain experience in the sprints and field events.
“The coaches will select the athletes based on their performance in the local competitions including the school games. However, youngsters who took part in the World U-20 Championships will be given the first priority,” Korir said.
He added: “We are looking to send other athletes from November and the main aim of the camp is to ensure they gain experience in the sprints and field events.”
