American track and field sprinter – Christian Coleman held off Africa’s fastest man – Ferdinand Omanyala of Kenya on Saturday to win the men’s 100m at the Prefontaine Classic 2024 in Eugene, Oregon.
Coleman, the 6th fastest of all-time in the history of the men’s 100 metres event coasted 9.85 seconds to beat Omanyala who clocked 9.98 seconds.
Another American, Brandon Hicklin finished third in 10.08 seconds.
Speaking in a post race interview, the Atlanta born sprinter revealed that he is in the best shape:
“I feel good. I feel like I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in and I feel like now it’s just mentally putting it all together and doing what I know I’m capable of on race day.
“Every race is different. I was happy I was able to execute today, come out with a win, and we’ll go back to the drawing board and be better next time.
“I felt really good today, but then you can’t really control the elements and other factors, wind and all that. So you just take what you can.
“I feel like it will take care of itself as long as I just do what I know I’m capable of. So I’m in a good spot. I’ll talk to my coach and will adjust and be better next time.”
Omanyala on the other hand said he’s delighted to pay Kenyans back for their enormous support:
“It’s always a good feeling, seeing Kenyans around the world supporting you. It’s motivating honestly, and I feel great that I’m giving them something that’s exciting.
“This season is all about progress and I’m glad that the progress is going on well, and we want just to time that Olympic period and get it right then.”
By James K. Attaglo Wilson
