Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala almost made history at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo when he missed the chance to secure a place in the men’s 100m final by microseconds.
Omanyala was competing in his first Olympics and easily advanced to the semi-finals with a time of 10.01 seconds, finishing third in his heat and setting a new national record.
However, in the semi-finals, he timed himself 10 seconds to finish third and only two athletes advanced to the final.
Since then, Omanyala has won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games and set a new African record.
This has motivated him and he says Tokyo was a good learning experience and he will strive to make sure he doesn’t miss the final.
“Over the years I have learnt that it takes experience. I didn’t compete with many top athletes at the last Olympics. I hadn’t competed in the Diamond League or any continental tour. It was a difficult decision but we are getting to that point now,” Omanyala said.
“Having competed with almost the best in the world is a totally different experience. I won’t be surprised by anything I see in the Village. I’ve been to Paris nine times, so nothing will make me feel like this is a new place.”
Omanyala is already in Miramas, France, and is stepping up his preparations ahead of the match and says everything is looking good so far.
The national champion says his body is responding well to training in France and he is excited about the games.
In terms of the weather, Omanyala says the climate in Miramas is good for him as sprinters are always excited about the prospect of training under a warm climate as it helps keep the muscles loose and flexible.
Heat can also improve muscle function.
Omanyala will arrive at the games as the second fastest, but says this will count for nothing when the games begin.
“When we get to the Olympic stadiums on the 3rd, none of that will matter. What matters is how well prepared you are, mentally, health-wise, that’s the only thing that will matter. All those schedules that have been set for the matches will not count for anything,” he added.
The sprinter was also quick to thank the National Olympic Committee for the support they have provided to all the athletes, including setting up the training camp in Miramas, France, and ensuring that all the subsidies have been paid on time.
However, he says representing Kenya at the games is much more than just an assignment.
The Kenyan team has already received its kits and most of the athletes will arrive in France this week.
The opening ceremony of the game will be held on Friday.
