• ATHLETICS

• Frank Rotich 5 hrs ago

Omanyala, Oketch lead Kenya’s medal hunt at World Relays in Gaborone

Kenya will look to make an impact at the World Athletics Relays on Saturday and Sunday, with sprint stars Ferdinand Omanyala and Mercy Oketch leading the country’s charge in Gaborone.

The two athletes headline a strong Team Kenya squad that will compete in five relay events, as the country continues to grow its reputation in sprint racing on the global stage.

Omanyala, Africa’s fastest man, will be key in the men’s 4x100m and mixed relays. His speed and experience are expected to give Kenya a competitive edge against top nations such as the United States and Jamaica. The Kenyan sprinter remains confident that the team can challenge for top positions if they execute clean baton exchanges.

On the women’s side, Oketch goes into the competition in top form after setting a national 400m indoor record recently. She will play a vital role in the 4x400m and mixed relay teams, boosting Kenya’s chances in the one-lap races where the country has shown steady improvement.

Kenya’s rise in relay events was clear last year after winning bronze in the mixed 4x400m, a result that signaled a shift from the country’s traditional dominance in long-distance running to sprint relays.

However, the challenge in Gaborone remains tough. Strong teams from Europe and the Caribbean, including Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Jamaica, are all expected to fight for podium places.

Apart from medals, teams are also battling for qualification to the 2027 World Championships in Beijing, making every race crucial.

With Omanyala’s explosive speed and Oketch’s strong form, Kenya will be aiming not just to compete—but to announce itself as a serious contender in world relay athletics.