Kenya’s Mukhobe Were and Zablon Ekwam Savour Paris Olympic Qualifications

Wiseman Mukhobe basking in his joy and pride after cruising to victory in the 400m men’s hurdles and qualifying for the Olympic Games during the ongoing World Athletics Continental Tour held at Nyayo stadium in Nairobi. Photo: SPortPicha

Wiseman Mukhobe Were and Ekwam Zablon have both secured a place in the next Olympic Games after finishing 1st and 4th respectively in their different races at the ongoing World Athletics Continental Tour held at Nyayo stadium.

Were cruised to victory in the 400m men’s hurdles as Ekwam finished fourth in the 400m men’s race to solidify their qualification for the fabled event that will be held in Paris, France later this year.

Were, a bronze medalist at both the 2022 Commonwealth Games 4x400m relay and the Africa Games 400m hurdles, showcased his exceptional talent once again by claiming first place in the men’s 400m hurdles.

“I am happy to have qualified for the Olympics. I had prepared well and it is also going to help my preparations for the World Relay Championships,” remarked Were.

At the same time, the fourth placed Ekwam recorded a time of 44.60 seconds slightly behind Ndori Bayapo who came in first in a record time of 44.10 seconds.

Second and third places were secured by Deadmon Bryce at 44.41 and Scotch Leungo at 44.54 seconds respectively.

“I am happy that I have made it to the Olympics, the camps for sprinters have really helped in sharpening my skills and techniques. They helped us break the Africa 4x400m indoor record and as we head for the Bahamas, Miramas camp will be a big help in training.

The Penn relays will also give us more exposure,” said Ekwam, while also congratulating his team and country mate Were for qualifying for the Olympics which means the 4X400m team will be strengthened.

Meanwhile, Ndori Bayapo who led team Botswana to the 4x400m relay bronze at the 2020 Olympic Games maintained that it was a very tough race and he was glad to have improved his personal best and set a world lead of 44.10.

“I’m looking forward to the season ahead. I’m hoping to win a medal this season,” he added.