Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala has ignited the 2025 athletics season with a remarkable performance at the Adidas Atlanta City Games, clocking a blistering 14.70 seconds to win the men’s 150m and set a new African record. This victory not only reaffirms his status as Africa’s fastest man but also lays a solid foundation for his ambitions at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.
Omanyala’s triumph in Atlanta marks a significant milestone in his career. The 27-year-old sprinter, who previously held the African 150m record at 14.89 seconds, shaved 0.19 seconds off his own mark, showcasing his exceptional speed and consistency. His performance in Atlanta was part of a broader resurgence in Kenyan sprinting, with Omanyala leading the charge. His victory was part of a broader resurgence in Kenyan sprinting, with Omanyala leading the charge.
Looking ahead, Omanyala has expressed confidence in his preparations for the World Championships in Tokyo. Despite a challenging 2024 season, where he faced setbacks at the Paris Olympics and the World Championships in Budapest, Omanyala remains focused on his goals. He aims to leave a lasting legacy by inspiring future generations of sprinters in East Africa
As the athletics world turns its attention to Tokyo, Omanyala’s recent performances suggest he is poised to make a significant impact. With his African record-breaking run in Atlanta and a renewed sense of purpose, the Kenyan sprinter is ready to challenge the world’s best and potentially secure a podium finish in September.