Paris Olympics: 'Godfather of Kenyan Running' weighs in on Kenya's chances in men's 800m

Iten-based veteran athletics coach Bro Colm O'Connell, widely revered as the 'Godfather of Kenyan Running', has shared his insights on the upcoming men's 800m in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The Irish missionary is known for his exceptional coaching prowess and his role in nurturing some of the country’s best athletes.

They include Edna Kiplagat, Florence Kiplagat, Lorna Kiplagat, Linet Maasai, Mary Keitany, Janeth Jepkosgei, Sally Barsosio, and Rose Cheruiyot among other notable stars.

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One of his most notable protégés is David Rudisha, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time. He made history by setting the world record in the 800m at the London 2012 Olympics with a time of 1:40.91.

He led from gun to tape to win gold in what was acclaimed "The Greatest 800m Race Ever". In doing so, he became the first and, so far, only runner to break the 1:41 barrier for 800m.

More than a decade on, the record still stands. His average speed per 200m section was 25.22.

This year, Kenya’s 800m in the Olympics is studded with talent. Emmanuel Wanyonyi leads the pack followed by Wycliffe Kinyamal and Kidali Koitatoi.

Wanyonyi earned his Olympic spot after finishing first in the two-lap race in a time of 1:41.70 at the national trials. That was the fastest time in the world since 2012 when Rudisha ran the World Record.

Kinyamal came in second in 1:42.50 with Kidali completing the podium in 1:42:66 for a formidable Team Kenya contingent.

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When queried on where he would stake his money, Bro Colm gave a rather different opinion.

He noted a distinct difference between the field of competitors in Paris compared to previous Olympics, particularly the London 2012 Games.

"Paris, unlike London, has a few serious contenders, with some four athletes already under 1.42,” he observed.

The tactician went on to emphasise that the true nature of the Olympic 800m event extended beyond mere times and statistics.

According to Bro Colm, the unique and demanding environment would test not only the physical capabilities of the athletes but also their mental fortitude and zeal.

"Remember that the Olympic 800m has three rounds in four days, no pacing, no stroll lights, huge pressure, and expectations," he offered.

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With that in mind, he emphasised the importance of understanding the individuality of each athlete when assessing their readiness for a high-stake competition like the Olympics.

"The only real person who can judge an athlete's preparedness for the Olympics is the person who knows 'the personality and inner workings of that athlete,” he concluded.