Ferdinand Omanyala, Africa’s fastest man, has opened up about the unique balance he maintains between fierce sprinting rivalries and friendships with athletes like Letsile Tebogo, Noah Lyles, Akani Simbine, and others. While the track is a space for intense competition, Omanyala emphasizes that beyond the race, there exists a strong camaraderie among the athletes, particularly with his African counterparts.
Omanyala shares a particularly close bond with Letsile Tebogo, often referring to him as his “brother” and affectionately calling him “school boy,” a nickname Tebogo enjoys. The two sprinters communicate frequently, offering each other support and encouragement. Omanyala also maintains friendly relationships with other top sprinters, including Simbine, Lyles, Marcell Jacobs, and Christian Coleman. However, he stresses that while he values these friendships, the nature of their conversations depends on the willingness of his fellow athletes to engage. He believes that maintaining a friendly atmosphere is important, but he never forces interactions, respecting the boundaries that others may set.
Omanyala’s approach to sprinting is deeply rooted in respect for his competitors. He recognizes the immense strength and courage it takes for any athlete to line up on the starting line, and this respect is a foundation for the mutual understanding he shares with his peers. While the athletes may engage in friendly exchanges off the track, once they step onto the starting line, it’s all about business. The rivalry intensifies because sprinting is their career, and they approach it with utmost seriousness, leaving no room for leniency or remorse.
Omanyala highlights the importance of taking the competition seriously during races, but he also acknowledges that the rivalry is confined to the track. After the race, the athletes return to being colleagues, often engaging in positive conversations and encouraging one another. This mutual respect is vital, as Omanyala points out that their relationships will extend beyond their competitive years. As athletes eventually transition into roles such as management or coaching after retirement, maintaining strong relationships with fellow competitors will be essential.
The Kenyan sprinter’s perspective on rivalry is shaped by his belief that the sport is temporary, and it is important to foster connections that will last long after their careers have ended. Omanyala emphasizes that the competition on the track should not be taken too seriously in the broader context of their lives. “It’s better that I take you out on the track, but after that, we are good,” he says, illustrating the temporary nature of their competitive tensions. He adds that while the rivalry is fierce during the race, it is ultimately a sport, and they all share the same goal of achieving excellence in their field.
As Omanyala looks ahead to a strong 2025 season, he remains focused on making an impact while continuing to cultivate meaningful relationships with his rivals. His ability to balance competition with camaraderie serves as a testament to his professionalism and respect for the sport and the athletes he competes alongside. In a world where rivalries can often be personal, Omanyala’s approach is a reminder that sports, at their core, are about mutual respect, growth, and the connections that extend beyond the track.
