Team Kenya has returned home from the just-concluded World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, after a historic performance that earned them qualification in three relay events for the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo, Japan, this September.
Kenya punched tickets in the men’s 4x100m, men’s 4x400m, and the 4x400m mixed relay.
The women’s 4x400m team narrowly missed qualification, despite setting a new national record of 3:28.20.
The highlight of Kenya’s campaign came from the 4x400m mixed relay team—David Sanayek, Mercy Chebet, Brian Tinega, and Mercy Aoko—who not only qualified with a season-best time of 3:13.10 but also claimed the country’s sole medal at the championships, a bronze.
Head coach Stanley Towet lauded the team’s effort and discipline throughout the event.
“These athletes have put in tremendous effort, and I’m proud that three of our four teams have qualified for the World Championships in Tokyo,” Towet said. “We also broke national records in all our events, which shows that our preparations in Nairobi were effective and focused.”
Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, who was part of the men’s 4x100m team that made history with their qualification, called on the government and Athletics Kenya (AK) to step up support for sprint disciplines.
“We had a fantastic weekend in Guangzhou, but now it’s time to get serious with training,” Omanyala said.
Adding “The entire country has seen what we’re capable of. The government and AK must support our preparations. We need a well-structured training camp because the World Championships won’t be easy.”
Kenya finished tied for ninth place overall with Botswana, each securing one bronze medal. South Africa topped the standings with two golds and a bronze, followed by the United States (1 gold, 2 silvers), and Spain (1 gold, 1 bronze).
As Kenya shifts focus to Tokyo, there is a growing sense of belief that with the right investment, the country can rise as a competitive force not just in distance running, but also in the sprints.
