Mushai targets World Para title with Paris in mind

Mushai, who is chasing his Paralympic appearance for the fifth time, is brimming with confidence after what he has termed as ‘proper’ preparations.

 “I’m very hopeful as we set out for the competition. I’ve had a good opportunity and an ample time to do my training. For now, I can admit that the preparations are top notch and will bore good fruits. I’ve done everything to my level best ahead of the championship,” said Mushai, who will be competing in the 5,000m (T11).

The Eldoret-based visually impaired athlete has also backed team Kenya to punch more tickets ahead of the Paris fiesta scheduled for 28 Aug-8 Sep in the French capital.

“We really thank God for the far he has brought us. We began our preparations in Nandi and now we’re in Nairobi. As a team we’re very ready to stage a good performance.

“We promise to raise our country’s flag high. We ask for prayers from our fellow countrymen as we embark on a mission to increase our entry to the 2024 Paris Summer Games.”

Mushai, who lost his sight at the age of nine after an illness, has won three Paralympics medals; two gold and silver.

On her part, Priscah Jepkemei, a debutant featuring in 1500m (T11) at the championship, is equally hopeful.

“I’m participating in the World Para Athletics Championships for the first time. I’ve been training in Kapsabet and we’ve capped up our training in Nairobi. As a team, we will do our level best.”

Among the Kenyan team to Kobe, is Brian Esogon who will participate in the 400m (T12). Esogon featured in the Long Jump category during the last edition of World Para Athletics championship held in Paris where he managed to finish at the fifth position. He has promised to improve and register good results during the upcoming championship.

The World Para Athletics Championships will be the last qualifier ahead of the Paris 2024 Summer Games.