Paris 2024 Olympics: Why Ferdinand Omanyala is not counting his chicks after coasting his way through 100m heats

Omanyala maintains a strict diet but also indulges in snacking on rice, pasta and buggers.

Paris 2024 Olympics: Why Ferdinand Omanyala is not counting his chicks after coasting his way through 100m heats

16:49 - 03.08.2024

Omanyala has revealed his ultimate target after qualifying for the semi-finals of the Paris 2024 Olympic games 100 meters.

Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, has set his sights on the ultimate prize after breezing through the heats to qualify for the semi-finals of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Omanyala, who was competing in Heat 2, delivered a commanding performance, clocking an impressive 10.08 seconds to secure his place in the next round.

In a heat packed with formidable opponents, including Italy’s Chituru Ali, Germany’s Joshua Hartmann, and Devin Augustine, Omanyala showcased his speed and composure. Chituru Ali followed closely behind in second with a time of 10.12 seconds, while Joshua Hartmann completed the top three in 10.16 seconds.

Reflecting on his performance, Omanyala emphasized the importance of pacing himself during the championships. “You have to prepare for a championship. I feel like I have not run but come tomorrow, I will be very, very fresh, so just go back, take recovery and ice baths and massage. The semis will be at 8:00 PM, so there is time to sleep,” he said after the race.

At 28 years old, Omanyala, a former rugby player turned sprint sensation, remains focused on his ultimate targets as he advances through the rounds. “We are in a championship. You don’t want to burn yourself out, and today was all about introducing yourself to the field. Tomorrow is where the game is,” Omanyala told the media after his race.

For Omanyala, the atmosphere at the Paris Olympics has been a source of joy and motivation. “Today was about enjoying it. When I got to the stadium, I just started laughing because the crowd was just amazing,” he shared, highlighting the positive energy he draws from the spectators.

In addition to his competitive ambitions, Omanyala also used the occasion to advocate for a change in the current false start rules enforced by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He expressed his wish for a return to the previous, more lenient rules that issued warnings before disqualification for false starts.

“I hope that one day they will take it back to where it was, a warning before a false start, but we have to adhere to the rules,” Omanyala said, voicing his thoughts on a rule that has been a topic of debate among athletes and officials alike.

As Omanyala advances to the semi-finals, his confidence and determination are evident. Drawing from his growth and experiences over the past three years, including World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and multiple Diamond League victories, he is poised to challenge for a medal.

“We have waited for three years, let us see if we can wait for another 24 hours,” Omanyala remarked, reflecting on his journey. “So many things have happened in the last three years. World Championships, Commonwealth Games, a couple of Diamond League wins—I am happy we are here today to make the semis tomorrow. I am excited, so let us see what happens.”

For Omanyala, the goal is clear, and his focus is unwavering. “Once we start the heat, it does not matter. What matters is the medal people will wear on their necks tomorrow,” he concluded, leaving no doubt that he has his eyes firmly set on Olympic glory.

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