Silverio Omari
Kenyan sprint sensation Ferdinand Omanyala has received a major boost ahead of his Olympic debut in Paris. Kenya Breweries Limited, through its flagship brand Tusker, has announced a Ksh 5 million sponsorship deal to support the Africa 100m record holder.
Omanyala, who proudly carried the Kenyan flag during the opening ceremony, is set to compete in the men’s 100m heats this Saturday.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the new partnership, Omanyala conveyed his appreciation for Tusker’s support and confidence. “This partnership with Tusker comes at a crucial time as I ramp up my training for the Paris 2024 Olympics. This support from KBL will not only enhance my preparations but also inspire me to reach new heights. I have been working tirelessly with my coaching team to ensure I am in peak form for the Games. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making Kenya proud on the global stage. I urge all Kenyans to rally behind Team Kenya and cheer us on as we aim to bring medals home from Paris,” Omanyala said.
KBL Managing Director Mark Ocitti highlighted that the partnership is part of the company’s broader commitment to Team Kenya for the Olympics, aiming to support the team’s preparations and logistical needs for the prestigious event.
“Our partnership with Ferdinand Omanyala underscores our unwavering support for Team Kenya. We believe in the immense potential of our athletes and are dedicated to providing them with the resources they need to excel. Ferdinand’s remarkable achievements and dedication make him an exemplary ambassador for our brand. We trust in his abilities and are confident he will represent Kenya with distinction at the Olympics. We encourage all Kenyans to support Ferdinand and the entire Team Kenya as they prepare to compete in Paris. Let’s unite and cheer them on to victory,” Ocitti stated.
This sponsorship is the latest in a series of moves by KBL to support Team Kenya during the Olympics. It follows a Ksh 20 million commitment to the National Olympic Committee of Kenya and an additional Ksh 10 million towards supporting Kenya’s National Volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, and the sprinters. The sponsorship also allows EABL to use the athletes’ images for promotional purposes during the Olympic period.
Omanyala, who finished fourth in the men’s 100m final at the World Athletics Championships in Hungary, is aiming to become the first African to win an Olympic medal in the 100m at the 2024 Paris Games, scheduled for July 26 – August 11, 2024. The last African to medal in the sprints was Namibian great Frankie Fredericks, who won silver in both the men’s 100m and 200m finals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Omanyala, who holds the African record with a time of 9.77 seconds, demonstrated his form by winning the Kenyan Olympic Trial with a time of 9.79 seconds, which was the fastest time of the year until last week.
In preparation for the Olympics, Omanyala recently competed in the FBK Games in Hengelo, Netherlands, where he clocked 10.01 seconds to win the race ahead of the United States’ Ronnie Baker (10.03) and Canada’s Andre de Grasse (10.07). This event served as a final test for Omanyala as he readies himself for an outstanding performance in Paris, following his semi-final appearance at the 2020 Tokyo Games.
Dj Vnyash
