World 800m champion Mary Moraa is poised for a crucial rematch against Olympic silver medalist Keeley Hodgkinson at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. Their last encounter at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, saw Hodgkinson narrowly edge out Moraa, clocking an impressive 1:55.78. Moraa finished second with a commendable 1:56.71, while Jemma Reekie secured the third spot at 1:57.45.
The “Kisii Express,” as Moraa is affectionately known, is eagerly anticipating another intense showdown when the women’s 800m heats commence on Friday. Reflecting on her previous race, Moraa expressed her determination for redemption. “Last time we met, she got the best of me. I hope we do our best and get to the finals for a rematch,” she said.
Understanding the rigorous preparation of her competitors, Moraa acknowledged Hodgkinson’s efforts. “I know Keeley has been training hard for the Olympics. I have also been working hard to be perfect. You never know who is going to win the race, but I expect it to be an intense race,” she added.
Moraa is also aware of the formidable field she will face in Paris, which includes not only Hodgkinson but also other elite athletes. “It’s not just Keeley and me. There will be strong competitors like Natoya Goule from Jamaica, Reekie, and Nia Akins from the USA,” she noted.
In addition to Hodgkinson, Reekie, Goule, and Akins, Moraa will face other notable athletes like two-time Diamond League winner Prudence Sekgodiso of South Africa, 2019 World champion Halimah Nakaayi of Uganda, and African champion Tsige Duguma of Ethiopia. The intense competition promises a thrilling race, where any of these world-class runners could take the podium.
Moraa’s ultimate goal is to surpass her previous Olympic performance. In the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she was eliminated in the semifinals after clocking 2:00.47, finishing third in her heat. This time, she aims to reach the finals and secure a medal. Reflecting on her journey since Tokyo, Moraa emphasized her ambition to do better. “In 2020, I got to the semis. This time around I want to do better, reach the finals and win a medal,” she stated.
Moraa continues to intensify her training at Nyayo Stadium in preparation for Paris. “I have been training and polishing up on some areas. Before we leave for Paris, I want to be in top shape,” she shared. Her rigorous training regimen reflects her dedication and focus on delivering her best performance at the Olympics.
Calling on her fans for support, Moraa expressed her gratitude and hopes for their continued encouragement. “I want my fans to continue praying for me so that I can come up with good results. I also hope I get to Paris in good health,” she said.
In Paris, Moraa will be joined by national champion Lilian Odira and Vivian Chebet, adding strength to the Kenyan contingent. The presence of her compatriots will undoubtedly bolster Moraa’s confidence and determination to excel on the grand stage.
As the world eagerly awaits the commencement of the Paris Olympic Games, Mary Moraa’s quest for redemption and Olympic glory remains a focal point. Her journey from Tokyo to Paris, marked by relentless training and unwavering determination, exemplifies the spirit of an athlete committed to achieving greatness. Fans around the globe will be cheering her on, hopeful that the Kisii Express will speed her way to the podium.
