Coach Kimutai shifts focus to World Race Walking Champs in Antalya

Kenya’s walking race coach David Kimutai wants Athletics Kenya (AK) to keep the African Games walk race team that delivered gold and silver here in Accra ahead of the 2024 World Athletics Race Walking Team Championship in Turkey.

The championship is slated for April 21 in Antalya, and Kimutai feels altering the squad might slow down the momentum that saw Emily Ngii clinch gold in the 20km women’s race while former champion Samuel Gathimba settled for silver in the men’s category on Wednesday.

The event will also serve as Paris Olympic Games qualifiers.

“The team is very solid and vibrant and I don't see any reason for AK to change it. They are collaborating well in the field and what they need is just support from all quarters. I was happy by what I saw here in Accra and they must compete in the Antalya championship which will double up as the 2024 Olympic Qualifiers."

It is only Gathimba, a three-time African race walk champion, who has sealed a ticket to the Olympic Games after he posted a personal best of 1:18.34 to crack up the top 10 during last year’s World Championships in Hungary.

Kimutai is hopeful more will punch tickets to the coveted premier quadrennial global showpiece during the World Athletics Race Walking Team Championship.

“They really showed a good fighting spirit and that's why I see the reason for them to compete in the Antalya championship.

“The best way to keep the team on their toes is to organize a camp in Ngong for the walkers to hit specialized training ahead of the Turkey event,” he added.

On his part, Gathimba called for support to help other Kenyan race walkers in their bid to qualify to the Paris Games.

“I promise Kenya will win medals at the Olympics but first we need the support more so from my colleagues who haven't qualified to do so. We promise Kenya that we shall not let them down.”

Ndigiti also weighed in on the matter saying proper kitting will go a long way in preparing them for Turkey.