Race walker Margaret Gati has attributed her dismal performance in the just concluded World Under-20 Championships in Cali, Colombia, to lack of experience.

Gati was placed 14th (49:05.09) in a race that saw Mexico’s Karla Ximena bag gold in a personal best time of 46:24.35.

Gati said she could not keep pace with her opponents in Cali because she was afraid of burnout.

“Halfway through the race, my opponents stepped up their game and I couldn’t just keep up with their pace. I was also afraid of getting worn out faster so I decided to maintain my pace,” Gati said.

She added: “I have tried. I have really tried and I am happy about my performance.”

Gati also said her training in preparation for the championships was not sufficient. “I trained for a short time before travelling to Cali,” she said.

Gati revealed she looks up to the six-time African champion Grace Njue.

Meanwhile, World Under 20 race walker Heristone Wanyonyi says he is not giving up on his dream as he seeks to take part in next year’s World Championships in Budapest and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Wanyonyi is excited as he graduates to the senior cadre next year.