Isaac Onderi, a 28-year-old emerging athlete from Kericho, is gearing up to make a mark at the third edition of the Nairobi City Marathon, scheduled for September 8.
Onderi will compete in the 10km men’s road race, representing Kericho with high hopes.
Onderi, who specializes in the 5000m and 10km track events, trains under Gabriel Kiptanui, the first vice chairman of Athletics Kenya’s Kericho branch.
In a recent interview at the Kericho Teachers Training College (KTTC), Onderi expressed his confidence in his performance.
He trains alongside Victor Kimutai, a Kericho native on a Japanese athletic scholarship, and Bernard Kibet, a two-time gold medalist.
“I’m fortunate to train with Victor Kimutai and Bernard Kibet, who have been pivotal in my development.
Kimutai, who trains extensively in Japan, races against stringent time targets set by his coach.
The experience and guidance from these seasoned athletes have bolstered my confidence,” Onderi shared.
His goal for the 10km race is to complete it in 29 minutes, a performance he hopes will secure him a spot in the Glasgow City Half Marathon in the UK, scheduled for October.
“As the sole representative from Kericho in this marathon, hitting a 29-minute mark is crucial. This race will be pivotal in determining my qualification for the Glasgow event,” Onderi said.
Coach Gabriel Kiptanui expressed confidence in Onderi’s potential, praising his consistency and discipline.
Kiptanui, who also coaches a roster of over 25 athletes including notable runners such as Sheila Chelangat, Miriam Cherop, and Alex Kipngetich, believes Onderi is well-prepared for a strong showing.
Chelangat, the 2015 steeplechase World Champion, and other prominent athletes like Mercy Cherono, who set a World Youth record in 3000m in 2007, are part of Kiptanui’s training group.
The coach’s stable also includes Beatrice Chebet, the 2024 Paris Olympics double gold medalist in 5000m and 10,000m.
As Onderi prepares for his upcoming race, he aims to leverage the support and training from his accomplished peers and coach to achieve his goals and make a notable impact in the competitive arena.
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