Ferdinand Omanyala proud after creating 'Omanyala-mania' in sprints

ATHLETICS Ferdinand Omanyala proud after creating 'Omanyala-mania' in sprints

Abigael Wafula 17:32 - 20.11.2023

Ferdinand Omanyala is impressed by how his 2023 achievements have inspired the rise of many Kenyan sprinters.

Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala is impressed by how sprints are taking shape in the country due to his dominant exploits that have seen him earn a place in the high table.

Omanyala’s rise to the top has encouraged many youngsters to venture into sprinting and they are doing pretty well on the track.

The 27-year-old explained that he is proud of how the sprints are taking shape since many sprinters are now willing to come out and showcase their talents.  

“I’m very proud of myself because of that achievement…when I started I wanted to change the notion that Kenyans can’t sprint.

"Basically, we have the talent that’s building sprints because rugby sevens basically consists of sprinters.

"So, the talent is there and I’m glad that now through me, people can see that it’s possible and we can make something out of sprints,” Omanyala told Pulse Sports exclusively.

He added that witnessing a huge number of athletes registering to participate in the sprints during the Athletics Kenya meets is an inspiration. He also explained that he wants to ensure athletes keep showing up.

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“Seeing more than 300 athletes coming to compete in different Athletics Kenya Meetings is breathtaking. I am proud of that and it’s something I’m not willing to let it die,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Commonwealth Games 100m champion has enjoyed a great 2023 season, competing in the Diamond League Meetings and taking the top prize at the Meeting in Monaco.

He also competed at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, and got to the final but unfortunately missed out on a podium place.

However, he has promised fireworks next season and he is putting in the hard work as his focus shifts to the Olympic Games in Paris, France.