Junior sprinters draw valuable lessons from French camp

A team of 11 junior athletes returned to the country last night after a month-long specialized training in Miramas, France.

The team that comprised sprinters and field events athletes had pitched camp at Miramas Athletics camp to further their training ahead of this year’s World Under-20 Championships to be held in Cali, Colombia.

Sprints coach Andrew Maritim who accompanied the athletes said the team have improved their techniques and are now ready for national trials.

"We had a very good outing in France we were received warmly. Our aim was to go and learn new techniques and skills as well as access some of the facilities we don't have here at home. I think we achieved our target there especially with a rigorous training program," said Maritim.

At the same time, Maritim exuded confidence that a record number of sprinters will hit the qualifying standards for the championships.

"We have already set our targets and our aim is to have atleast seven sprinters in the national which is something we have not had before," said Maritim.

World Under-20 400m bronze medallist Sylvia Chelangat who was among the delegation said she has improved on her speed as she eyes an improvement at this year’s championships.

"Personally I learned a lot from the training especially on how to use starting blocks. So far so good, I think I have improved on my speed. As compared to the last championships, I feel there is alot of improvement on my side," she said.

Chelangat who recently completed her form four examinations said she is now eyeing to further her studies together with athletics career.

"I got a B and my aim is to get a scholarship to study nursing in Oregon," she said.

Kenya will be seeking to defend her title in Colombia after securing a whopping 16 medals in last year's event held in Nairobi.