Mark Otieno reveals lessons learned from Omanyala after doping suspension

Kenyan sprinter Mark Otieno Odhiambo has disclosed the lessons he has learned from Ferdinand Omanyala’s glistering career after making his comeback to the track after two years.

The three-time national champion took part in his first competitive race on Friday, January 26, 2024 at the third Athletics Kenya (AK) track and field meet held at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi after returning from a doping ban.

He beat the field to win his heat in 10:41seconds before lowering the time to 10:33s in the semifinals as he tries to put his career back on track.

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Speaking after the races, the athlete revealed the numerous things he learned from his main rival who has gone on to claim the African 100m title and the Commonwealth gold medal while also breaking the African record during his suspension.

“Ferdinand has really passed the limit and I believe he is of course going beyond. He has shown me that it is possible. If you are outside sometimes and you don’t have somebody who is trying to do the same thing as you, you may end up feeling it is hopeless.

But I am really happy and encouraged with the milestone that he has made throughout his career,” Otieno commented.

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Otieno, who was blessed with a baby boy earlier this month, added that the progress that the 28-year-old has made is added encouragement to him.

When asked about how the race was after sitting in the cold for a long period, the World Athletics relays championships silver medalist replied that many individuals have embraced the discipline nowadays unlike in the past.

“It wasn’t easy because of course guys are showing up. But again it is an opportunity because we were all once there. I remember heats used to be like around 8.

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We are now pushing all the way to 20. It shows that there is talent and guys really want come in and reach where Ferdinand has reached,” Otieno stated.

The talented runner was banned when he was on the verge of taking part in the 100m heats at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for anabolic steroid methasterone.

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