Kenya’s three-time national sprint champion Mark Otieno, whose initial dream was deferred following a two-year doping ban in 2021, is now preparing to represent the country at a higher level after his ban ended in August 2023. Otieno has earned a spot in the star-studded team selected to represent Kenya in the upcoming World Athletics Relays slated for May 4-5 at the Thomas Robinson Stadium in Nassau, Bahamas. He expressed his gratitude after making the national team, stating that he feels blessed.
After his selection, Kenya will witness a notable performance from the dynamic duo of Otieno and Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala in the World Athletics Relays. Omanyala expressed confidence in the selected team, emphasizing the importance of working on the exchanges and mental cohesion to prepare for the competition. World 800m champion Mary Moraa will take charge of the 4 × 400m women’s team, with a positive outlook on the team’s readiness for the Bahamas competition.
She mentioned her participation in both the 4x400m and mixed relay events. Other athletes in the team include Mercy Chebet, Jackline Nanjala, Joan Cherono, Veronica Mutua, Vanice Kerubo, Maureen Thomas, Gladys Jepkemboi, and Diana Chebet. The team is set to head to a training camp for further preparation before flying out to the Bahamas for the World Athletics Relays scheduled for May 4-5.