Preview:Kenyans Athletes ready to reclaim more medals in Budapest, Hungary

By Robert Mutasi 

In the heart of Budapest, Hungary, 52 Kenyan athletes are among the 2000 global competitors preparing for the 19th edition of the Budapest World Athletics Championships in 2023. 

Team Kenya, led by captain Emily Ngii, is among the 200 teams with high hopes for victory in various events.

Kenya, a nation renowned for its record-breaking long-distance runners, has a large fan base eagerly anticipating their athletes' performances, given their history of dominance in past competitions. 

However, the start of the competition, initially scheduled for 9:30 am with the Men's 20M walking race, is currently uncertain due to unfavourable weather conditions.

The Kenyan athletes are set to participate in both indoor and outdoor tracks in Hungary, facing world-class champions from various countries. 

The spotlight is on Faith Kipyegon, the world record holder for the 5000m and 1500m, who is expected to challenge her rival, Olympic champion Shelly Anne Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica.

Ferdinand Omanyala, Kenya's fastest sprinter and record holder, is also ready to challenge the 100m USA champion, Fred Kerley, for the title.

Kipyegon is aiming for an unprecedented third 15,000m world title.

Ngii, the African 20 Kilometers race walk champion, leads the Kenyan team in their quest to reclaim medals previously lost to other nations. 

In a promising start, seven Kenyan athletes are expected to kick off the Men's 1500m race in Budapest, Hungary.