I was once forced to defer my education - Omanyala reveals

By Tony KIpkorir

Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omurwa Omanyala revealed on Monday, October 16, 2023 that he was once forced to defer his education at the University of Nairobi. 

Speaking during the launch of the Jobo Athletics Academy at St. Joseph’s Boys Kitale, Omanyala disclosed that he had to make sacrifices, which involved deferring his studies, to get to where he is today.

According to the 27-year-old, many people laughed at him when he made the decision so as to concentrate on training.

“One of the guys who I handed the deferment letter told me that I was so ignorant because I wanted to focus on something that no one in Kenya has ever done.

He even asked me if I was normal. I told him that I trusted my gut and he had to sign the letter for me to defer,” the Kamusinga High School alumni disclosed.

Also Read: Omanyala Explains Reason Behind World Championship Disappointment

The former rugby player turned athlete further narrated how Athletics Kenya officials denied him a chance of competing in the final of a national event despite winning his semis. 

In his address, Omanyala also took the opportunity to encourage students and warned them against doping.

“Doping is a wide topic that we are discussing in the world right now. Don’t engage in it. Good things take time. Do not trust anybody. Some of the agents are only interested in making quick money. So, put God first because he is the one who will take care of you,” added the father of two.

Also Read: Kenya’s multiple marathon winner Titus Ekiru handed 10-year ban for doping

On his part, Cosmas Stephen Nabungolo, the Chief Principal of the post-primary learning institution, asked Omanyala to mentor budding runners.

“I humbly request you to accept to be our patron on matters of athletics. So that these boys can do the sprints, the long distance and field events because along the way you will be passing the button to many Omanyala’s of this country. We want you to be a mentor to guide the boys,” Nabungolo said.

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Omanyala, who was accompanied by his wife Laventa Amutavi to the ceremony, received a warm welcome from the students. The two-time African champion was even given the honor of inspecting a parade by the school’s scouts.

He is expected to fly to France later this week to start his preparations ahead of the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games.