Kenya’s sprint sensation and African 100m record holder, Ferdinand Omanyala, has revealed his favourite stadium. Omanyala`s sentiments come at a time when the highly coveted Kenyan event, the 2025 Kip Keino Classic, has been moved to Ulinzi Sports Complex.
While addressing the press, Ferdinand Omanyala expressed a strong preference for the Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani Stadium. Citing it as his best venue for top-level competition.
However, Omanyala acknowledged the recent change of venue for the Kip Keino Classic to the Ulinzi Sports Complex. Though describing it as a bit tricky.
“I have only done a 400m at Ulinzi, so I don’t know what to expect,” he said. “I hope the Kip Keino Classic will be fine with the same quality of competition we had at Nyayo and Kasarani.”
Omanyala’s comments highlight the importance of familiar surroundings and atmosphere for athletes aiming to perform at their best. Kasarani Stadium has long been a favourite among Kenyan athletes due to its world-class facilities and electrifying crowd support.
Despite the uncertainty about the new venue, Omanyala remains optimistic. “My best venue is Kasarani, but we just hope that Ulinzi will be fine,” he added. Reflecting his readiness to face any challenge.
Ferdinand Omanyala prepares to compete against some of the best athletes at the Kip Keino Classic.
Ferdinand Omanyala’s Performance this Season
Omanyala has shown strong form in the 2025 season. He started with a win at the Athletics South Africa Grand Prix in March and placed second at the Botswana Grand Prix with a 10.00-second 100m.
Ferdinand Omanyala continued competing in Diamond League events, finishing second in Xiamen and Shanghai, but has yet to break 10 seconds this year. In May, he set a new African and Kenyan 150m record of 14.70 seconds at the Adidas Atlanta City Games.
He also finished second in the 100m at the Rabat Diamond League with 10.05 seconds. Moreover, Omanyala aims to peak at the Kip Keino Classic.
For now, all eyes will be on Omanyala to see if he can continue his impressive form and possibly set new records, regardless of the venue.
