Ferdinand Omanyala explains inspiration behind his pre-race stunts

Ferdinand Omanyala explains inspiration behind his pre-race stunts

Abigael Wafula 12:46 - 01.10.2024

Ferdinand Omanyala has explained his unique pre-race routine as part of his mental preparation, and expressed pride in being Africa's fastest man.

From Usain Bolt, Sha’Carri Richardson to Noah Lyles to Ferdinand Omanyala, almost all sprinters always have their signature pre-race stunts, some of which leave fans wondering the reason behind such unique gestures.

Well, Ferdinand Omanyala also has his gimmicks and many fans are left wondering the reason behind all that. The first thing the 28-year-old does is brush his shoulders, starting from the right to the left.

Ferdinand Omanyala then thumps his shoulder and throws something up before putting his arms out in front to maintain straight eye contact with the lane he is on. In an interview with Visa, Africa’s fastest man expounded on the reasons behind his stunts, evidently seen during the Paris Olympic Games.

“I always start with doing that (brushing his shoulders), so that means, ‘On my left or my right, I’m not looking at anyone. It’s just me and this lane.’,” Ferdinand Omanyala said.

“And then the flag is always here (points to the left side of his chest), so I put a bit of attention to that, take it out, roll it up then bring it back and then of a bit of a dab and then do that. That’s a C, that’s a cheetah. That’s what I always do before my races.”

He further revealed that the title ‘Africa’s fastest man’ does not put any pressure on him whatsoever as he always strives to be the best. The Commonwealth Games champion explained that it is an honour to be recognised and he will continue placing Kenya on the world map.

“Of course, being the fastest man in Africa and the ninth-fastest man in history is something that anybody would want to be called up because it puts you up there. There is no pressure because I always tell people what I do is like chasing the wind and running,” Ferdinand Omanyala added.