Kumari Taki shaping for national team comeback

Former World Youth 1,500m champion Kumari Taki began his 2022 season on a high, finishing second in the distance at the National Police Service (NPS) championship held last week. 

The 22 year old is looking to make a comeback to the national team ahead of a busy 2022 season that will see Kenya represented in Senior African Athletics Championships, Commonwealth Games and World Championships. 

Last week, the 2016 World Under-20 gold medalist, clocked 3:36.84 in a race won by World Indoor bronze medalist and fourth place finisher at the Tokyo Olympics Abel Kipsang (3:36.28). 

"It was a tough but exciting final with very competitive athletes. Being my first race of the season and a first in a long while as I suffered an injury last year I am impressed. My body responded well and I am excited to see what the season has in store," said the 22-year old. 

The national championship that will double up as the trials to the Senior African Athletics event slated for June is set for 28 to 30 April and Taki is well aware of the competition expected. 

NPS Championship: Manang'oi on the mend

However, the runner has set his sights on making a return to the World Championships, having participated in the 2019 Extravaganza held in Doha.

He clocked 3:37.98 in his heat to miss out on qualification to the final won by compatriot Timothy Cheruiyot. 

"The competition is getting tougher but I am confident my body is ready. I will continue my training as I target better times at the national championship as well as upcoming trials for the World Championships in Oregon. 

I had qualified for the Tokyo Olympics trials last year but a fracture, just a month to the trials, denied me that chance. However, I have since recovered and I am looking forward to lock horns with the best in the distance," added Taki.

The world Championships will be held from 15 to 24 July in Oregon, USA. Trial will be held on 24 and 25 June at Kasarani Stadium.

NPS Championship: False start for Manang'oi as Kipsang carries the day

Participation to these trials will be on invitation for athletes who have met the requirements tht including anti-doping regulations. 

Taki's comeback adds to the list of world-class athletes who will be looking make part of Team Kenya to the international championships as former world 1500m champions Elijah Manang'oi and Asbel Kiprop are expected to feature.