Nicholas Kimeli stamped his authority in the 5,000m and he hopes to become the first Kenyan since John Ngugi to win Kenya a gold medal at the Olympics.

Kimeli who was not yet born during the Seoul Games in South Korea says he is hoping to return to the country with the prized asset.

On Saturday he edged Daniel Simiu and Samuel Chebole with the trio securing Tokyo Olympics slots as the team was named.

“I feel like I am in the form of my life. A state where I don’t fear anybody. All I am thinking about is winning for Kenya in Tokyo.

It has been over three decades since we last won gold. That is such a long time, something has to change,” said Kimeli.

Kimeli who trains at the Global Sports Communication in Kaptagat clocked 13:02.88 to qualify for his maiden Olympics in Tokyo.

“I want to thank my coach and training partners for their support. As I had promised during the semifinals, I was going for the ticket,” said Kimeli.

With the world record holder Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda, two-time world champion Mukhtar Edris standing in his way to victory in Tokyo, Kimeli is unfazed with the fierce competition.

Work together

“I have met with all of them, especially in the Diamond League meetings. I am vowing today that I will work hard to ensure that I get to the podium if I do not win a gold medal,” said Kimeli.

For Simiu who was locked out of the 2019 World Championships due to anti-doping rules, he is happy to once again make the team to Tokyo.

“I have finally made it through God’s grace. It is now hard work as I prepare for the Games. I know we will work together with Kimeli to deliver ,” said Simiu.