This archive report was first published on 27 October 2021.
On 27th October 2021, Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala made history by being named the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) sports personality for September.
At just 25 years old, Omanyala received the award after shattering his national record and setting a new African record of 9.77 seconds at the Kip Keino Classic continental tour.
He finished second behind American Trayvon Brommell, who won the race in 9.76 seconds, the fastest time in 2021, while former Olympic and World Champion Justin Gatlin came in third in 10.03 seconds.
Speaking after receiving the award, Omanyala expressed his gratitude and said, "It’s such a great feeling winning this award. It’s something I’ve been eyeing since January. It’s so motivating seeing someone recognises your effort and I thank God for that," as told to the Standard Sports.
Among the other notable nominees for the award were the late Agnes Tirop, Mercy Moim (Malkia Strikers Captain), Sharon Chepchumba (Best attacker- Malkia Strikers), Gladys Ekaru (Best blocker) and Noah Kibet (winner 800 metres at Kip Keino Classic).
As the winner, Omanyala took home a customized trophy and an LG SolarDOM Oven worth Ksh65,000.
Just days before, Omanyala had been feted as a national hero among 200 other Kenyans by President Uhuru Kenyatta on 20th October during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Wanguru Stadium in Kirinyaga County.
