Paris Olympics: Coach Nakeel confident of Kidali’s abilities despite star-studded field

Coach Nakeel Sylvester, the man behind the rising star Koitatoi Kidali, is brimming with confidence as his protégé prepares to make his Olympic debut.

The seasoned coach believes that Kidali possesses the talent, determination, and mental fortitude to shine on the world's biggest stage.

Kidali is part of Team Kenya in the men's 800m. He earned his spot after finishing third in the two-lap race in a time of 1:42.66 at the national trials.

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Wycliffe Kinyamal (1:42.50) and world silver medalist Emmanuel Wanyonyi (1:41.70) took first and second positions, to complete a formidable Team Kenya.

In an exclusive with Mozzart Sport, Nakeel noted that Kidali’s exceptional work ethic and focus have been crucial in preparing him for victory at the Olympics. He was proud that his protégé was living his dream.

“It is a proud moment for me as a coach. Kidali has been training tirelessly for this moment. He has the skills and the heart of a champion. I am confident that he will make his country proud,” Nakeel offered.

He continued, "We have created a supportive environment for Koitatoi, both physically and mentally. He is surrounded by people who believe in him, and that's crucial for an athlete at this level."

Kidali comes from Maili Tisa, Namanga area in Kajiado. He is only 21 years old. The youngster is closely following in David Rudisha’s footsteps. Rudisha etched his athletics history after breaking the 1:41 barrier in 800m.

He is a two-time Olympic champion (2012 and 2016) as well as the current world 800m record holder (1:40.91).

“I was not sure I would make the team for Paris because there were so many top athletes. It came as a surprise to me and I was not even able to celebrate at the finish line because I was still in shock. I saw Wanyonyi take off and decided to go with him to ensure a podium finish,” Kidali said in a past interview.

In June 2022, Kidali clocked 1:47.12 to win the second Citta Di Lucca meeting in Italy before clinching a victory at the Track Night Vienna (1:45.25) the same month.

He will be making his first appearance for Team Kenya after missing the chance at the African Games Trials. During the continental trials held on March 6 at the Nyayo Stadium, Kidali clocked 1:46.07 for fifth place.

This year, Kidali has featured at the Spanish meeting Jaen Paraiso, clocking 1:45.78 for second place behind Netherlands Ryan Clarke (1:45.74).

He won bronze at the Anhalt meet in Germany, clocking 1:47.16 behind Kethobogile Haingura of Botswana (1:47.09) and South Africa’s Edmund Plessis (1:46.71).

In future, Kidali wants to venture into other middle and long-distance races.

“In future, I want to also shift to the 1,500m, 5,000m and maybe the 10,000m as well,” he said.