Omanyala reveals motivation for indoor competitions

Kenya’s sprint sensation and Africa’s 100m record holder Ferdinand Omanyala has shed light on why he chose to take part in indoor competitions this season.

Having shot to fame with his dazzling performances in the outdoor 100m where he kept setting and breaking national records for fun, the 26 year old switched things up a little bit after the Tokyo Olympics as he decided to take part in indoor competitions.

In February 2022, he debuted at the World Indoor Miramas Meeting Tour in France where set a new national record of 6.63 seconds in the 60m dash. A couple of weeks later, he clipped the national record as he clocked 6.57 seconds at the Meeting Hauts-de- France Pas-de-Calais in a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting in Lievin, France.

After those races in France, the sprinter continued with his indoor exploits as he was included in the Kenyan team that was sent to the World Indoor Championships held in Belgrade. Unfortunately, the Kenyan ace failed to qualify for the 60m final as he finished fourth in his heat consequently failing to advance to the star studded finals that was marginally won by Olympic 100m champion Marcell Jacobs, who beat world 100m champion Christian Coleman by just three thousandths of a second.

Athletics Kenya grappling with Omanyala mania as sprint enthusiasts overflow

Following that run, Omanyala, who is known for getting slowly off the blocks before powering upto speed in the 100m races, disclosed the reason behind his mission was to improve on his Achilles heel which he was hoping to carry into the outdoor races.

“The main aim of me running the indoors this season was to improve how fast I get to top end speed, use it as training and get to compete with the best in the world. It has been a great experience and I believe this will impact positively towards my outdoor season,” the athlete posted on his social media platform.