Omanyala, Moraa lead Kenya’s squad to world athletics relays in China

Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala and World 800m champion Mary Moraa headline a formidable Kenyan team named for the World Athletics Relays set for May 10–11, 2025 in Guangzhou, China.

The announcement follows the conclusion of highly competitive national trials held at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, where top athletes secured their slots in the national team. Among the standout performers was Kevin Kipkorir, who clinched victory in the men’s 400m final with an impressive time of 45.24 seconds.

“For the relays, the team is not bad. If we combine efforts, the results will be much better,” Kipkorir said. “I haven’t achieved my target today. I was aiming for 45.0 but all in all, I appreciate the effort and the result.”

Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei expressed confidence in the team's ability to uphold Kenya’s strong tradition at the World Relays. He urged the selected athletes to intensify their training as the countdown to China begins.

“This marks the beginning of our journey towards the World Championships in Tokyo this September,” Tuwei said. “Next year, Africa will host the World Relays for the first time, and this team sets the pace.”

100m Men:

Meshack Kitsbuli Babu (KDF) Moses Onyango Wasike (Western) Isaac Omurwa Kundu (University), Steve Onyango, Ferdinand Omanyala and Mark Otieno Odhiambo (Police)

400m Women: Mercy Adongo Oketch (KDF)  Mercy Chebet (South Rift) , Esther Mbagari Okang'a (Prisons)  Lanoline Aoko Owino (KDF)  Vanice Kerubo Nyagisera (Southern)  Gladys Mumbe David (Police)  Hellen Syombua Kalii (Police) and Mary Moraa

Kevin Kipkorir (North Rift) Tinega Brian Onyari (Police) Allan Kipyego (Police) Kelvin Kiprotich Tonui (Nairobi) Boniface Mweeresan Ontuga (KDF) David Sanayek Kapirante (Prisons) Wiseman Were (KDF)

Kennedy Tanui – Technical Leader

Catherin Kagwiria – Coach/Safeguarding

Stanley Towett – Coach

Thomas Musembi – Coach

Simon Riga – Coach