Mark Otieno explains deep bond with his son Luke

In today’s world, it is common to see athletes embrace their kids after races, but sprinter Mark Otieno stands out for the extraordinary affection he shows his son.

Beside his incredible sprinting ability, what truly captivates fans is the affectionate bond Otieno shares with his son Luke Baraka Odhiambo. After the race, Otieno is often pictured holding his son in his arms during post-race interviews.

This tender display of love and pride resonates deeply with fans because it showcases a softer side of the fierce competitor they admire.

The Olympic trials held at the Nyayo National Stadium from June 14-15 were no different as he crossed the line, and did not hesitate to embrace his baby as he matched to the mixed zone.

This was when Mozzart Sport expressed curiosity on the deep bond between the two. Christians will understand that the gospel of Mark is the second in the New Testament while Luke is the third.

To begin with, Otieno chose the name Luke for his son because in the Bible, Luke means "Light." The sprinter sees his son as a beacon of hope and joy in his life. He also believes that Luke will shine brightly in the world, bringing warmth and clarity wherever he goes.

“We chose Luke because the name means Light. This boy brings so much joy to me. His name is the third gospel of the Bible,” he offered.

Despite not achieving the qualifying time for the Paris Olympics, Otieno reveals that every time he looks at Luke, he is reminded of his reason to strive harder and set a positive example. He came in second in 10:12 while the qualifying time was 10:00.

“I did not manage to clock the qualifying time but at least I lowered my time. The season has been tough but I am really encouraged. There is no time, but there is time,” he averred.

The spiritual sprinter went on to explain that while running 10:00 looked like a Goliath in his life, he was confident that he was the David for the challenge.

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“Running at 10:00 looks like a Goliath but I will say there is a David in between and I believe that it is very possible. If it does not happen, I am glad that I brought my body to a competitive mood,” he said.

With the performance now behind his back, the inspirational speedster has set his sights in Douala, Cameroon.

“During the Africa Senior Championships trials, I am looking forward to doing something big. If I miss it, it is not the end of the world. The good thing is I have really fought to be there. I have not run 9 yet, but I believe it is possible. Next year, it is going to be big and I am looking forward to it,” he said.

Otieno is returning to the track after the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) imposed the ban on him after he allegedly tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid methasterone. This resulted in his suspension from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, just moments before he was scheduled to compete in the 100m heats.

However, Odhiambo successfully appealed the ban, leading to a reduction in his suspension period.

Since the season kicked off, he has been registering impressive times and it’s a matter of wait-and-see as athletics fans anticipate his peak.