Runners racing against time in preparation for upcoming world events
Athletes in Nyahururu yesterday called on the government to fast track the setting up of protocols on resumption of sporting activities in the country.
The runners said they are racing against time in preparation for various upcoming world events.
The athletes who teamed up to clear bushes on the track at Nyahururu stadium yesterday, said they were eager to use the facility for speedwork ahead of various world events.
Japanese-based Stanley Waithaka who has been in Kenya since March hopes to participate in the Diamond League and needs the stadium to build his speed ability.
He said that the stadium had overgrown vegetation because it has been abandoned since the onset of Covid-19 when sporting activities were suspended.
“We have been utilizing roads and slopes for circuits. We are used to doing speed work here and the slopes only offer short distances.
He said most runners have not worn spikes for several months since they have been training on roads. Spike shoes are used on tracks or on cross country routes.
Coach Francis Kamau said the need to spruce up the tracks was necessitated by the various world events that the athletes hope to participate in.
“Individual practice on road reserves and estates by the athletes does not improve speed but only builds stamina,” Kamau said.
A member of the Kenya women’s half marathon Monica Ngige pleaded with the Laikipia County government to financially support the athletes who mainly rely on sports to earn a living, saying they are suffering now that there were no events.
“I hope to participate in the World Half Marathon in March but the event was postponed to October because of the pandemic.
