Wandia reveals source of inspiration ahead of Tokyo Deaflympics
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 29.10.25. | 15:53
Kenya’s contingent of 177 athletes competing in Tokyo will feature heavily in athletics. Other sports include men’s handball, swimming, women’s basketball, and golf
Kenyan deaf athlete Lucas Wandia says being recognised as a national hero on Mashujaa Day has inspired him to work harder, as he prepares to represent the country at the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics from 15-26 November.
The 36-year-old, a double Deaflympics gold medalist, in the men’s 3000m steeplechase, was among 31 sports personalities celebrated during this year’s Mashujaa Day at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui on 20 October.
Fellow deaf athlete Sharon Bitok Jeptarus was also honoured during the event, which was presided over by President William Ruto.
Wandia says the recognition has given deaf athletes a sense of appreciation and motivates them to elevate Kenya’s presence on the global stage.
“Now deaf athletes are being seen and acknowledged,” Wandia said at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, where he has been training for the Tokyo Deaflympics. “It pushes us to work harder and contribute to making our country proud,” added the former Team Kenya captain.
The Tokyo Deaflympics will be Wandia’s fourth appearance at the championships.
He debuted at the 2013 edition in Sofia, Bulgaria, winning a silver medal.
He went on to claim gold in Samsun, Turkey, and successfully defended the title at the 2022 Deaflympics in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, finishing the 3000m steeplechase in 9:25.27.
Wandia attributes his success to self-belief and a strong partnership with his coach.
He is confident he can defend his title for a third consecutive time. “I believe I will return home with gold. I have prepared well and worked hard for the championships,” he said.
“I win because I trust myself and my coach. Our programme gives me confidence to achieve anything.”
He also backed his teammates, Jacob Kibet and Peter Lagat, and the rest of Team Kenya to shine at the Games, praising their talent, confidence, and improved skills.
“I believe God will guide us to represent Kenya excellently. We aim to claim all top positions in our events. We are prepared and confident, and this time we hope to win the medals we missed in Brazil,” said Wandia.
He called on the government to ensure deaf athletes are included in the new cash reward scheme announced by the President.
Last month, President Ruto revealed that gold medalists at major global championships will receive Ksha 3 million, up from Kshs 750,000.
Silver medalists will get Kshs 2 million, and bronze medalists will get Kshs 1 million.
“I hope these awards are extended to us. Often, our hearing colleagues receive these rewards while deaf athletes are overlooked. We need the same recognition and support because we all represent Kenya,” Wandia said.
Kenya’s contingent of 177 athletes competing in Tokyo will feature heavily in athletics.
Other sports include men’s handball, swimming, women’s basketball, and golf.
