With only 19 days remaining until the Paris Olympics, veteran Kenyan race-walker Samuel Gathimba is focused on achieving glory when he competes on the streets of Paris on the morning of August 1, 2024.
Having placed fourth in the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, the former 2019 African Games champion is optimistic about securing a place on the podium. Gathimba, currently training at Kasarani in Nairobi, the residential camp set by the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, is relying on his extensive experience to aim for the top spot.
“The experience I got in Rio 2016 combined with all the African championships I have won medals in will play a critical role in shaping the race I will have in Paris. I believe I have now come of age to be able to deliver in a major world event like the Olympic Games,” said Gathimba.
Despite not qualifying for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Gathimba remained dedicated to his athletic career. His determination to compete in the Paris 2024 edition was evident, and in Budapest, he achieved his goal by clocking 1:18:34 to secure his spot.
Finishing fourth was a clear motivation for him, demonstrating that reaching the podium in Paris is within his reach.
“I have been practicing and I feel I am not only physically prepared but also mentally to do my very best in Paris. My goal is to show Kenya and the world that walking race is just as prestigious a discipline like all the others by winning a medal in Paris,” he added.
