Kenyan sprinters under special NOC-K program have intensified training ahead of the ASA Grand Prix Continental Tour challenge set for March 27 in South Africa.
Now camping at the Nyayo National Stadium, the sprinters include relay teams of 4x100m men, 4x400m men, 4x400m women and the mixed relay.
Coach Mwaniki Mlamba who is heading the program has underlined their mission to qualify for the World Athletics Relays in Bahamas on May 4 and 5.
“The team is good to go. We’ve identified and rectified our mistakes. Most importantly, the players are willing to go and fight for their qualification for the World Athletics Relay.
“We’re aiming to improve on our time. In 4x400m we’re ranked among the top 15 in the world, and number 19 in mixed relay,” said Mlamba.
Mlamba says the program will play a critical role in achieving their target.
“We must be among the 32 top countries to book our slot to Bahamas. This build up sponsored by National Olympic Committee of Kenya in conjunction Athletics Kenya is crucial for our preparations.”
Two-time Olympian Mike Mokamba who captains the relay team is equally hopeful.
“Our coaches have been keen on our individual and team training. It’s good for us. The South Africa showpiece is for ranking. We need to make it among the top teams.
“We will also be having our trials for the relay here at Nyayo as a build up before we proceed to Bahamas.”
Athletes, including 800m World Champion Mary Moraa who departed for Accra, Ghana, will join the team for the next phase of training to step up their preparation for Bahamas and the World Olympics in Paris.
After the Continental Tour, the team will pitch camp in Miramas – France.
Thereafter, they will proceed to the Penny relays before culminating their preparation for the Paris Olympics at the World Athletics Relay in Bahamas.
