Samuel Kireri Gathimba: Kenya's hope in men's 20km race walk at Paris 2024

Samuel Kireri Gathimba: Kenya's hope in men's 20km race walk at Paris 2024

Eric Munene 07:05 - 01.08.2024

Catch Samuel live on Friday as he takes on the 20km walking race

Kenyans the king and queens of track racing are preparing to take on the Olympic games and all eyes will be on Samuel Kireri Gathimba, a seasoned athlete poised to make a significant impact in the Men’s 20km Race Walk.

Born on October 26, 1987, in Othaya, Kenya, Gathimba's journey to the Olympics is a testament to his resilience and dedication.

Gathimba, 36, has had a remarkable career in race walking, a discipline not traditionally popular in Kenya.

His athletic journey began in Mumwe Primary School, where he initially viewed race walking as a hobby.

Despite facing tough competition from taller and stronger peers, his passion never waned.

His perseverance has since earned him a prominent place in international athletics.

Gathimba's achievements on the track are impressive. Notably, he clinched the gold medal at the 2016 African Championships and followed up with gold at the 2018 and 2022 editions.

His performance at the 2019 African Games, where he won gold, and his historic bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games highlight his versatility and skill.

In the World Championships, Gathimba's progress has been significant. He secured fourth place in the 2022 World Championships with a time of 1:19:25 and finished ninth in the 2023 edition with a time of 1:18:34.

These results highlight his competitive edge and consistency at the highest levels.

Gathimba's journey has not been without challenges. The absence of Kenya's representation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to qualifying constraints and COVID-19 disruptions was a setback.

However, he remained undeterred, using the experience to fuel his determination for Paris 2024.

Off the track, Gathimba's interests are diverse. He enjoys volleyball, singing, and dancing.

His past involvement in the entertainment industry and his current role as a prison warden highlight his multifaceted life.

Gathimba is driven by a clear ambition: to secure a medal and build on his past experiences.

His dedication and achievements make him a key athlete to watch, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that Kenya is known for in athletics.

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