)
Three South African sprinters are set to challenge Ferdinand Omanyala's sprint dominance at the Kip Keino Classic.
As the Kip Keino Classic approaches, the spotlight once again falls on Kenya’s sprint king Ferdinand Omanyala, who has dominated the event in recent years.
However, this year's edition brings a fresh twist as three hungry South African sprinters are gearing up to challenge Omanyala on his home soil and potentially rewrite the script in Nairobi.
Here’s a look at the trio of South African stars who are eyeing Omanyala's crown.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
3. Sinesipho Dambile
)
Sinesipho Dambile as emerged as an early season in threat in his 2025 campaign ahead of the Kip Keino Classic.
The 23-year-old wcan deliver over both 100m and 200m is particularly dangerous in tightly contested races.
He has recently turned heads with a sub-10.20 season opener, and his trajectory points towards a potential breakout performance in Nairobi.
2. Gift Leotlela
)
Gift Leotlela is no stranger to high-stakes sprinting. A two-time Olympian and a regular in major championships, Leotlela brings valuable experience and proven speed to the track.
His personal best of 9.94 seconds stands as a warning to competitors that the South African is not to be underestimated.
After battling injuries in recent seasons, Leotlela has made a strong comeback in 2025, clocking competitive times and displaying solid race fitness.
With his experience, he could use the Kip Keino Classic as a springboard back to global prominence.
1. Bayanda Walaza
)
Bayanda Walaza has emerged as one of South Africa's most exciting sprint prospects.
Known for his explosive starts and graceful stride, Walaza has consistently improved his times over the past meets early in the campaign.
After a solid 2024 campaign that saw him dip under 10.10 seconds, Walaza has positioned himself as a legitimate contender.
His recent performances on the Diamond League circuit suggest he's peaking at the right time.
If he manages to combine his raw speed with race-day composure, he could very well upset the home crowd and dethrone Omanyala.
Whether it's Walaza’s youth, Leotlela’s experience, or Dambile’s unpredictability, the South African contingent is primed to bring fireworks.
The African record holder and hometown hero has a unique combination of crowd support, and track familiarity in his favor, but with three determined South Africans in the mix, Omanyala faces his stiffest test yet on home turf.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)