Africa 1500m champion Abel Kipsang is ready to leave a slow start to his season behind as he gears up for the highly competitive Olympic trials. The trials, scheduled for Friday and Saturday at the Nyayo National Stadium, will determine Kenya’s representatives for the upcoming Olympic Games.
Despite a mixed start to the season, Kipsang remains optimistic about his chances. He attributed his slow start to his body’s delayed response to training. “It took some time for my body to adapt to the intensity of the training,” Kipsang explained. “But I’m feeling much stronger and more prepared now.”
Kipsang kicked off his season at the national cross-country championships, a departure from his usual track events. He made his season debut on the track during the African Games national trials. His performance in Accra, Ghana, saw him finish second behind Brian Komen, showing glimpses of his potential despite not clinching the top spot.
Returning to Kenya, Kipsang participated in the Kip Keino Classic, where he competed in the 800m and finished fifth. He then went on to dominate the National Police Service Championships, securing first place in his race. However, his international outings were less favorable; he placed 13th at the Diamond League Meeting in Doha and 14th at the USTAF Los Angeles Grand Prix.
In his recent appearance at the Prefontaine Classic, another Diamond League Meeting held in Eugene, Kipsang competed in the mile and finished 12th. Although his results have been inconsistent, the 27-year-old remains undeterred.
“My performances abroad were not what I expected, but they have been valuable learning experiences,” Kipsang said. “Each race has helped me identify areas for improvement, and I’m confident that I’m in peak condition for the trials.”
The upcoming Olympic trials at the Nyayo National Stadium are expected to be highly competitive, with Kenya’s best athletes vying for a spot on the Olympic team. Kipsang’s resilience and dedication will be put to the test, but he is determined to secure his place.
As the trials approach, Kipsang has been fine-tuning his training regimen and focusing on his strategy. “I’m ready to give it my all,” he affirmed. “The goal is to represent Kenya at the Olympics and bring home a medal.”
Kipsang’s journey has been one of perseverance and hard work. With the Olympic trials just around the corner, he is poised to demonstrate his capabilities and achieve his dreams on the world stage.
