Ferdinand Omanyala Smashes African Record with Stunning Victory at Atlanta City Games
Kenyan sprint sensation Ferdinand Omanyala has once again etched his name in the annals of athletics, delivering a breathtaking performance at the Atlanta City Games.
In a spectacular display of speed and power on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, Omanyala stormed to victory in the men’s 150-meter race, clocking an incredible time of 14.70 seconds.
This remarkable feat not only secured him the gold medal but also shattered his own African record in the rarely contested distance.
The atmosphere at Piedmont Park in Atlanta was electric as Omanyala, the reigning Commonwealth Games 100m champion, took to the blocks.
The highly anticipated showdown with American sprint star Noah Lyles unfortunately did not materialize due to Lyles’ late withdrawal citing a tight ankle.
However, Omanyala remained focused, determined to make his mark on the event.
A Dominant Performance from Start to Finish
From the gun, Omanyala showcased his explosive start, gaining an immediate advantage over the field.
While Terrence Jones of the Bahamas briefly challenged him in the initial stages, Omanyala’s superior speed and acceleration became undeniable as the race progressed.
He powered through the final stretch, leaving his competitors trailing behind, and crossed the finish line in a commanding 14.70 seconds.
Jones ultimately settled for second place with a time of 14.93 seconds, while American Matthew Boling finished third in 15.15 seconds.
The victory was emphatic, but the significance lay in the clock. Omanyala shaved a remarkable 0.19 seconds off his previous African record of 14.89 seconds.
Which he had set at the same event back in 2023.
Joining the Elite: Among the Fastest Ever
Omanyala’s new African record places him in truly elite company in the history of the 150-meter sprint.
Only legendary sprinters Usain Bolt (14.35 seconds) and the joint second-fastest, Tyson Gay and the absent Noah Lyles (both at 14.41 seconds), have ever run the distance faster.
This achievement solidifies Omanyala’s position as one of the premier sprinters on the global stage and the fastest African ever over this unconventional distance.
Speaking after his record-breaking run, Omanyala expressed his satisfaction with his performance, especially after a mixed start to his 2025 season.
This victory serves as a significant confidence booster as he sets his sights on major upcoming competitions, including the Rabat Diamond League in Morocco.
A Shining Day for African Sprinters
The Atlanta City Games proved to be a memorable day for African sprinting overall.
Alongside Omanyala’s record-breaking win, Nigeria’s Favour Ofili also stole the spotlight by setting a new world best in the women’s 150-meter race, clocking an astonishing 15.85 seconds.
This makes her the first woman to ever break the 16-second barrier in this event.
Looking Ahead for Omanyala
This victory in Atlanta marks a significant milestone for Ferdinand Omanyala in his journey towards the World Championships in Tokyo.
His dominant performance and new African record demonstrate his continued improvement and his unwavering determination to compete at the highest level.
As one of Africa’s brightest athletic talents, Omanyala’s achievements continue to inspire a nation and solidify his place among the global sprinting elite.
Athletics fans around the world will be eagerly watching his progress as the season unfolds.
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