Kenyan sprinter Mark Otieno Odhiambo is eagerly counting down the hours to his much-anticipated return to the track.

His two-year ban for breaching anti-doping rules is set to expire on Monday, July 31, 2023, making him eligible to compete once again

Mark Otieno’s ban

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) had imposed the ban on Odhiambo after he tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid methasterone, resulting in his suspension from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, just moments before he was scheduled to compete in the 100m heats.

However, Odhiambo successfully appealed the ban, leading to a reduction in his suspension period. With just a few hours remaining before the ban officially ends, the talented athlete took to social media to express his excitement about getting back on track.

In a heartfelt statement, Odhiambo shared, “In less than 7 hours, I will be eligible to compete again. Mine is a story of God’s Faithfulness and Mercies. I’m ready. #MarkIsback.”

He will be keen to shine once as he restarts his career. Otieno caught the attention of the athletics world by clocking a hand-timed 10.1, finishing a remarkable second in the Kenyan trials for the prestigious World Championships in Beijing.

Mark Otieno in Kenyan Championships

The following year, he continued to showcase his potential and determination, lowering his official best to 10.39, earning him a well-deserved second place at the Kenyan Championships.

However, it was in 2017 that Odhiambo truly made a resounding impact on the sport. During the Kenyan national 100m title race in Nairobi, he displayed his exceptional speed and talent, clocking a blazing time of 10.14.

This impressive performance not only secured him the national title but also booked his spot at the highly coveted 2017 World Championships.