Omanyala shares how he was once laughed at when he deferred studies to focus on the track

ATHLETICS Omanyala shares how he was once laughed at when he deferred studies to focus on the track

Abigael Wafula 14:30 - 17.10.2023

Ferdinand Omanyala has explained how many people did not believe in him when he wanted to defer his studies and focus on training.

Commonwealth Games champion Ferdinand Omanyala has come out to share how he was doubted when he chose to defer his studies for a while to focus on athletics.

As per Sportpesa news, Omanyala disclosed that many people actually laughed at him for making such a decision. He was speaking during the launch of the Jobo Athletics Academy at St. Joseph’s Boys Kitale.

“One of the guys who I handed the deferment letter told me that I was so ignorant because I wanted to focus on something that no one in Kenya has ever done.

He even asked me if I was normal. I told him that I trusted my gut and he had to sign the letter for me to defer,” Omanyala explained.

He added that his journey to the top has not been a bed of roses since he has been forced to make a lot of sacrifices and be hardworking.

He explained that he has faced rejection and there was a time when Athletics Kenya officials denied him a chance to compete in the final of a national event despite winning his semis.

Meanwhile, Omanyala also took time to advise the youngsters to shun away from doping. He encouraged them to trust the process and put God first since He is the only one to grant them their heart’s desires.

Meanwhile, Omanyala has had a stellar 2023 season and he will be hoping to extend the winning streak to the Olympic Games next year.

The Africa 100m champion has been to several Diamond League Meetings where he finished in the podium bracket. He also made history in Monaco, becoming the first Kenyan to win a Diamond League Meeting.