Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, and World 800m champion Mary Moraa will spearhead a strong Kenyan contingent to the 2025 World Athletics Relays scheduled for May 10–11 in Guangzhou, China.
The announcement of the national team came shortly after the conclusion of highly competitive trials held at Nyayo National Stadium. The trials showcased Kenya’s sprinting and middle-distance talent as athletes battled to secure a place in the relay teams.
Among the standout performances at the trials was Kevin Kipkorir’s victory in the men’s 400m final. Kipkorir clocked an impressive 45.24 seconds, marking him as one of the top contenders for the 4x400m relay team. Despite narrowly missing his personal goal of 45.0 seconds, Kipkorir remained optimistic about the team’s potential. He emphasized the importance of collective effort and teamwork to ensure positive results on the global stage.
In the women’s 400m category, Mary Moraa was the headline act alongside other accomplished athletes including Mercy Adongo Oketch, Mercy Chebet, Esther Mbagari Okang’a, Lanoline Aoko Owino, Vanice Kerubo Nyagisera, Gladys Mumbe David, and Hellen Syombua Kalii. Moraa’s presence significantly boosts Kenya’s hopes in the 4x400m relay, given her experience and strength over the distance.
In the men’s 100m squad, Omanyala is joined by a fast and determined group of sprinters: Meshack Kitsbuli Babu, Moses Onyango Wasike, Isaac Omurwa Kundu, Steve Onyango, and Mark Otieno Odhiambo. Their inclusion sets up Kenya for strong showings in both the 4x100m and mixed relay events.
For the men’s 400m team, the lineup includes Kipkorir, Tinega Brian Onyari, Allan Kipyego, Kelvin Kiprotich Tonui, Boniface Mweeresan Ontuga, David Sanayek Kapirante, and Wiseman Were. With a blend of youth and experience, this team is expected to be competitive in Guangzhou and could challenge for a podium finish.
Team preparations are expected to intensify in the coming weeks. Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well and uphold Kenya’s growing sprinting legacy. He noted that this relay event serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the World Championships in Tokyo later in the year.
Tuwei also highlighted that the 2026 World Relays will be hosted in Africa for the first time, making the 2025 edition in China an important opportunity for Kenyan athletes to set the tone and build momentum.
Supporting the athletes will be a team of seasoned officials and coaches, including Kennedy Tanui as the technical leader. The coaching staff features Catherin Kagwiria, who also serves in a safeguarding role, alongside Stanley Towett, Thomas Musembi, and Simon Riga. Edwin Kiptoo will serve as the team physiotherapist, ensuring the athletes are in top physical condition.
With world-class sprinters like Omanyala and Moraa leading the charge, Kenya heads to China with high hopes of making a mark on the international stage and continuing its evolution from a middle- and long-distance powerhouse to a serious contender in the sprints and relays.
