2017 SU: Kenya aims to go Long with Short Distance

NAIROBI - As the 29th Summer Universiade billed for Taipei draws nearer a quick chat with the Kenyan delegation has us all excited. A country known for its legendary performances in long distance racing and Marathons will be looking to go long and hard in the sprints this summer when the curtains are drawn for the 100m and 200m racing for both men and women.

In recent times Kenyan Athletics seem to having dominated the long distance races with their east African brothers, but have shifted their attention to sprints, huge example is David Rudisha 800m gold medalist at the Rio Olympics. More recently are the efforts of Jackline Wambui (800m) at the IAAF U18 championship in Nairobi in July where we saw impressive sprinting from the Kenyans. 

Ferdinand Omanyala, 2nd year student at the University of Kenya Nairobi

At this year’s Universiade the Kenyan contingents are buoyed by the talent at the track and field events, most especially the 100 and 200 meters races, with athletes like Ferdinand Omanyala, regional champion 100m; Peter Mwai, Dennis Nyongesa, Vera Rorey, Joseph Onduto and Laventa Amutavi, sprinters who are ready to show Kenya is ready for a change in the tracks. 

Speaking to Ferdinand Omanyala, 2nd year student at the University of Kenya Nairobi on his expectations he said "This will be my first Universiade and though I started sprints last year I know I am ready. I joined prints to sweep off the notion we can’t sprint. I expect a medal at the University games, I clock 10.28 in 100 meters and 20.56 in 200 meters." He also spoke on the readiness of the team saying they are all psyched up to impress, "we have a stronger team this year compared to other years and most importantly we are grateful for a better organization.”

Mr Joseph Sandagi, the delegation’s secretary general says “the country is breeding a new generation of athletes, with emphasis on sprints. I have confidence that the selected athletes in all sports will represent Kenya well.”

Read the original article on Fisu.net