This archive report was first published on 14 July 2021.
Mark Otieno, a 28-year-old sprinter, is set to represent Kenya in the 100m race at the Tokyo Olympic Games, thanks to a Sh1 million sponsorship from Safaricom.
As part of the sponsorship deal, Otieno will have access to the best quality shoes and support for his training needs, as well as logistics to attend other competitions.
"I want to thank Safaricom for seeing my potential and believing in me," Otieno said. "It has always been my dream to compete in the Olympics, and having the biggest company in the country backing me has boosted my own confidence and I am determined to do my best in Tokyo."
With the support of Safaricom, Otieno is now eyeing a place in the final of the 100m race, alongside national record holder Ferdinand Omanyala.
"Now I'm looking forward to reaching the finals because that is what we are aiming for," Otieno said. "And since we are close to where the world of sprinters is, we are taking it a race at a time, all the way to the finals."
On June 17, 2021, Otieno qualified to represent Kenya in the 100m race during trials at Kasarani stadium, where he clocked 10.05 seconds.
He and Omanyala, who clocked 10.02 seconds, left yesterday for a pre-Olympics camp in Kurume City, Japan.
Earlier, Safaricom unveiled a Sh20 million sponsorship for the Kenyan team at the Olympics, which will cover the ceremonial kit for the contingent.
