Africa under 20 race walk champion Dominic Ndigiti wants Athletics Kenya to organise a month-long camp for all walkers in the country to assist them qualify for the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, later this year and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Ndigiti said a month in a training camp will help them prepare effectively ahead of the two international competitions.
Ndigiti is preparing to compete at the fourth AK track and field weekend meeting set for March 31 and April 1 at the Mbaraki Stadium, Mombasa.
“ A month’s training camp will help athletes prepare better under their coaches’ guidance as they seek to qualify for Budapest and Paris assignments,” he noted.
“We also need build-up matches and if we can compete in places like South Africa or China, it will go a long way in improving our skills.”.
The world under-18 race walk bronze medallist said they almost hit the qualifying mark when they competed in Thika two weeks ago.
“We, however, failed along the way due to a lack of endurance and skills. If we can compete at international races against top walkers, it will be a great opportunity to learn,” said Ndigiti.
The World Athletics put the qualifying mark at one hour and 20 minutes for Budapest but the Kisii-based walker has a personal best of 1:24:32.
“In Thika, I competed againstSamuel Gathimba, who is more experience in the walk and it was a good experience. At this moment, we have to work extra hard as a team,” he said.
“Today (Wednesday) I did 35km to gain endurance because we have been told we shall walk 25km in Mombasa and my body has been responding well. I want to increase the mileage. What remains is the speedwork. It may not be easy but I believe my determination will pay off,” added Ndigiti.
