Mary Moraa: Kenya's 800m Queen Addresses Speculation Over Possible 400m Switch

Mary Moraa has been impressive in the 400m so far this season, with her core event, the 800m, proving a bit challenging for her.

The reigning world 800m champion has been unbeaten in the 400m but has only managed to win two 800m races so far.

She started her season with an eighth-place finish in the 800m at the Grand Slam Track debut in Kingston. Mary Moraa then claimed the win at the Grand Slam Track Miami before finishing fifth at the Grand Slam Track Philadelphia.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

The Olympic 800m bronze medallist then finished second at the Diamond League Meeting in Stockholm before winning the two-lap heats at the Kenyan Championships. She finished ninth at the Prefontaine Classic.

In the 400m, Mary Moraa won the heats at the 5th AK Track & Field Weekend Meeting/Relay Series before continuing her hot streak to the Night of Athletics and Athletics Kenya World Championships trials.

Now, fans have a major question of whether she is slowly downgrading to the 400m or whether she will remain in the 800m.

There is no doubt that the former world 800m bronze medallist has endured a torrid 800m campaign so far, but she will stick to her favourite event.

In an interview during the trials at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Mary Moraa admitted that the 400m possibly brings out the best in her, but it is for training purposes.

Mary Moraa noted that competing in the 400m helps her refine her speed in the 800m ahead of her title defence at the World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

“The workout I have been doing is for the 800m, and the 400m has been helping me boost my speed, and I feel good because I’m doing well in the 400m, but my main focus remains on the 800m,” Mary Moraa said.

Moraa added that her body has started peaking and that she is very excited, especially with the World Championships approaching, adding that the most important thing for her and her country is to defend her title.

Mary Moraa will be up against tough opponents, including Athing Mu, Tsige Duguma, Keely Hodgkinson, Prudence Sekgodiso and Jemma Reekie, among other formidable 800m runners.

“I can say that in a competition, you have to be prepared mentally and know that everyone has trained hard, and there are only three medals. I’m ready for anything. There are times you win and other times you don’t get what you want,” Moraa added.

Mary Moraa has insisted that her main focus is on the 800m and now that her form is taking shape, she is ready to conquer at the World Championships.