Omanyala and Richardson highlight the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi

Ferdinand Omanyala and Sha’Carri Richardson highlighted sprint races in the fourth edition of the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi, the fourth leg of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold.  

Five world leading performances were set at the Kip Keino Classic on Saturday Afternoon: Ferdinand Omanyala in the 100 metres (9.84), Emmanuel Wanyonyi in the 800 metres (1:43.32), Amos Kirui in the 3000m steeplechase (8:08.45) and Yaroslava Mahuchik in the women’s high jump (2.00m).

RESULTS

Men’s 100  metres:

African record holder Ferdinand Omanyala from Kenya set the world seasonal best of 9.84 into a headwind of -0.5 m/s to win the 100 metres for the second consecutive edition at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi. In his previous two appearances at the Nairobi meeting Omanyala finished second in an African record of 9.77 in 2021 and won in 9.85 in 2022. World and Olympic 200 metres silver medallist Kenny Bednarek dipped under the 10 seconds barrier for the fifth time in his career to finish second in 9.98 ahead of his compatriot Marvin Bracy (10.03). 

Ferdinand Omanyala: “I expected a faster time, but it’s a win and a world lead. I am happy with it. It feels so amazing to win at home in front of such a huge crowd. I am now focused on my next race at the Rabat Diamond League. I know it will not be easy but I will give it my all as I always do. My goal is to break my African record of 9.77”.

Women’s 200 metres: 

Former 100m NCAA champion Sha’Carri Richardson cruised through to an impressive win in the women’s 200 metres in 22.07 easing up in the final 30 metres with a tailwind of +1.7 m/s with a huge gap of 0.7 over three-time NACAC Championships medallist Kyra Jefferson (22.77). Shannon Ray completed the US sweep finishing third in 22.82. Richardson confirmed her excellent period of form after her win in the 100 metres in the Diamond League in Doha in 10.76. Richardson won her first 200 metres race this season following her second place in Gaborone. 

Sha’Carri Richardson: “I am really elated to have won today. Nairobi is just great. A huge thanks to the fans who have shown me love. The race was amazing. I came here to Kenya knowing that I have no excuse but to do my best. I know I have more to do for my fans, for my loved ones”.

Men’s 800 metres: 

Kenyan 18-year-old middle-distance runner Emmanuel Wanyoniy won the men’s…