Reigning African and Commonwealth Games 100-meter champion Ferdinard Omanyala says he is propelled towards greatness after receiving an award from President William Ruto.

During an exclusive breakfast event at Statehouse, Omanyala and fellow athlete Faith Kipyegon were honoured for their remarkable performances in the Diamond League.

Omanyala receive Ksh2M

President Ruto gifted Omanyala Ksh 2 million for his outstanding achievements, while Kipyegon reaped substantial rewards, including a whopping Ksh5 million and the key to a luxurious house valued at Ksh6 million.

The gesture left Omanyala deeply moved and fueled with determination as he sets his sights on the upcoming World Championships in August.

Expressing his gratitude, Omanyala emphasized the significance of being invited, recognized, and awarded by the President in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports.

He described the experience as an immense honour that amplifies his motivation and drive as he prepares for the highly anticipated world championships.

“I feel greatly honoured and special today for being invited, recognized and awarded by the President in conjunction with the Ministry of Sports,” he stated.

“This really motivates and fuels me especially as we head towards the world championships coming up in August. Thank you Mr. President, he added.

Following a remarkable second-place finish at the Paris Diamond League, where he crossed the line just behind World 200m champion Noah Lyles, Omanyala showcased his exceptional speed by breaking the 10-second barrier for the first time since his Diamond League debut in Rabat last month, recording an impressive time of 9.98 seconds.

In Florence, Omanyala faced initial setbacks but displayed an extraordinary recovery, swiftly regaining his balance within 30 meters and overpowering some of the world’s finest sprinters.

Now, with his sights firmly set on the 2023 World Athletics Championships, the 19th edition of this prestigious event.

Scheduled to take place from August 19 to August 27, 2023, at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest, Hungary, these championships promise to be a thrilling spectacle.

Budapest, previously interested in hosting the 2007 World Championships, withdrew its bid, and the event was eventually held in Osaka.

The specially constructed National Athletics Centre in Budapest, with a provisional capacity of 36,000, will provide an exceptional stage for athletes from around the globe.

Qualification criteria

World Athletics has outlined the qualification criteria, which include World Athletics Rankings, wild card entries for reigning world champions and 2022 Diamond League winners, as well as meeting specific entry standards.

The championships will also feature the participation of unqualified athletes or relay teams from countries that have not achieved the entry standards.

With the modified qualification system available for relay teams due to the postponement of the 2023 World Relays to 2024 Nassau, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Omanyala and his fellow sprinters are eagerly awaiting their opportunity to showcase their talent and vie for glory on the global stage.