World U20: Wanyonyi braced for Walk Race title defence in Cali

Reigning World Under-20 race walk champion Heristone Wanyonyi is a man on a mission as he heads to Colombia for the World Junior Championships.

Wanyonyi who bagged a historic gold medal in last year’s global showpiece held at Kasarani Stadium is not only seeking to defend his title as he also targets a new personal best when this year’s championship gets underway on Monday in Cali.

He made history by becoming the first Kenyan to win a World title in the race walk.

“I know I will face stiff competition, especially from Asian countries that are very good at race walking. However, I am not worried at all. I am going to try to defend my title and if all goes well lower my personal best,” said Wanyonyi.

Wanyonyi who is also Team Kenya’s captain for the global showpiece is also adamant Kenya will successfully defend the overall title. The youngster pegged his hopes of the country retaining the title given the preparations the athletes have and the improvements noted in the team.

“The team is ready and we promise Kenyans we will not let them down in Cali. We have done enough preparations and we thank our coaches who have really helped us improve,” he said.

The championships run from August 1-6 with Team Kenya set to leave for Cali on Friday.