Ferdinand Omanyala proposes change in how Kenyan athletics is covered
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 17.10.24. | 07:49
The Commonwealth Games gold medalist urged scribes to focus on stories that build athletes rather than ones that tear them down
Africa's fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala has issued a heartfelt plea to bloggers and sports journalists to focus on positive and respectful narratives when covering athletes.
The Commonwealth Games gold medalist urged scribes to focus on stories that build athletes rather than ones that tear them down.
Reflecting on this experience, Omanyala expressed his disappointment with the way athletes are often portrayed in the media, especially when things do not go according to plan.
“There is one article about Eliud Kipchoge I saw that was very hurtful. This guy has been representing the country for over 20 years and one loss does not justify you to write just about anything,” he started.
He went on to emphasize that athletes, who dedicate their lives to representing their countries, deserve respect, even when they fall short of victory.
The 28-year-old was concerned that media coverage often focuses on negativity, which can demoralize athletes who are already facing pressure in their professional and personal lives.
“Let’s put some respect to our athletes. There are bloggers writing some negative articles. Of course, it makes you feel bad because these are people who should write things that encourage athletes,” Omanyala added.
Omanyala urged bloggers to find ways to frame their stories more positively, noting that even when athletes do not finish first, they still deserve recognition for their hard work and achievements.
“To put respect to the names of athletes, you can write negative things in a positive way. If you end the race at position two, you have not lost; you’re still among the best,” he explained.
He also reflected on the long-term impact of the media’s portrayal of athletes, noting that future generations should be able to look back and appreciate the efforts made by sports personalities.
“So, let’s find a way to put these articles in a good way, and in a way that even if my kid reads that article some years later, they will appreciate our efforts,” he said.
“To all bloggers and writers, let us not seek justification in negativity. We have so much negative energy going around; let us try and get the positive out of it," he averred.
His appeal comes after he was subjected to intense online scrutiny following allegations of an unconfirmed extramarital affair, which overshadowed his preparations for the 2024 Kip Keino Classic.
Omanyala trended online for several days, with every social media post met with criticism and negativity from the public. Some even wished him ill in his upcoming events, and to their dismay, their wishes seemed to come true when he failed to defend his Kip Keino Classic title.
Omanyala finished fifth in the 100m race, which was won by American sprinter Kenny Bednarek. This marked a sharp contrast to his victorious performances on home soil in 2022 and 2023.
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