Sprinter Chemelil shifts focus to Paris 2024

World Athletics Under-20 Championship semi finalist Elikanah Kiprotich Chemelil has shifted focus to the 2024 Paris Olympics after representing the country in the junior event in Cali. 

The 18-year old will not be legible to participate in the next Under-20 games but he says representing the country in the 2021 and 2022 editions has equipped him with the necessary skills as he makes the switch to competing with the seniors. 

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In Cali, Chemelil who was part of the Kenyan team that underwent training in France ahead of the championship, reached the 400m semis. 

"My experience in Cali was good. I gave it my all then, but my body did not respond well to deliver to the best of my potential. I managed to get to the semis and I am happy for that," said Chemelil in an interview with Mozzart Sport. 

Lining up in heat two of the 400m in Cali, Chemelil clocked 46.69 to finish fourth in the heat and gain qualification to the semis where he timed 48.03 in heat two yoiss out on the final. 

In 2021, while competing in Nairobi, Chemelil timed a then personal best time of 46.79 in his heat to finish third to miss the final. 

"I am proud of what I have managed in the junior ranks and I am ready to make the switch. I have competed at the highest level as a junior and managed to have a month-long camp in France which has helped me get better as an athlete and improve my time. Focus now shifts to Paris 2024," he added. 

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Having had the experience of competing with seniors locally in several meets, the sprinter says that has given him an experience of what to expect. 

"I know what I need to work on, top of the list being my finishing power ahead of Paris Games. I still do not have the specific major races that I will be competing in before the Olympics but I will take part in events that help me get better and qualify," Chemelil concluded.