- Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala finished third in the 2025 Kip Keino Classic 100-meter race held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
- He clocked 10.07 seconds, as Australian Lachlan Kennedy stormed to victory in 9.98 seconds, while South African Bayanda Wanzala impressed with a strong second-place finish in 10.03 seconds.
- Despite the setback, Omanyala’s performance marked a notable improvement from last year’s outing, where he placed fifth.
Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, fell short at the 2025 Absa Kip Keino Classic 100-meter race held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday, May 31.
Competing on home soil in front of a roaring crowd, Omanyala finished third with a time of 10.07 seconds.
The race was dominated by 21-year-old Australian Lachlan Kennedy, who stormed to victory in 9.98 seconds, claiming his maiden win at the Kip Keino Classic.
South Africa’s 19-year-old Bayanda Walaza impressed with a strong second-place finish in 10.03 seconds.
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In what turned out to be a gripping and unpredictable contest on Saturday, Kennedy stunned many by eclipsing pre-race favorites Omanyala and Walaza, both of whom had dominated earlier races this season.
Despite the setback, Omanyala’s performance marked a notable improvement from last year’s outing, where he finished fifth.
Reacting to hi s maiden victory, Kennedy expressed a mix of surprise and gratitude, especially for the opportunity to compete against top-tier sprinters like Omanyala and Walaza.
“It’s a dream debut for me, but I’m not entirely surprised,” said Kennedy. “Running in this kind of vibrant atmosphere with a passionate crowd made it even more special.”
“Omanyala beat me in China, but I’ve taken this one and it’s an incredible feeling. It’s truly an honor to race against both him and Walaza.”
Looking ahead, Omanyala’s next appearance will be at the Rome Diamond League on June 6. Reflecting on his performance, he acknowledged the need to refine certain aspects of his race execution.
“I think my starts are still solid,” said Omanyala. “But I have been focusing on my mid-race progression, which I aim to enhance going forward.”
Kennedy, meanwhile, described the event as a championship-caliber showdown.
“I felt good. It was a good lineup and it felt like a real championship. I love the atmosphere and how lovely Kenyan fans are. I will definitely be coming back for the next one,” said Walaza.
Walaza echoed similar sentiments, expressing admiration for Omanyala’s influence on the sport.
“It’s a great honor running against Omanyala, who has inspired many to aim high.”
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Kip Keino Classic 2025 100m results
Lachlan Kennedy (AUS) – 9.98 (PB)
Bayanda Walaza (RSA) – 10.03
Ferdinand Omanyala (KEN) – 10.07
Shaun Maswanganyi (RSA) – 10.24
Simon Verherstraeten (BEL) – 10.26
Mark Otieno Odhiambo (KEN) – 10.29
Duan Asemota (CAN) – 10.32
Claude Bogognie Itoungue (CMR) – 10.32
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