Kenya is renowned for its long distance runners who over the
years have continually laid claim to the title (most of the time), not letting
even the most enthusiastic taste the glory. The London Olympics are however
painting a different picture of what the future looks like for our dear brothers;
that this show will not be for Kenyans to dominate as the likes of Ethiopia
steps in the scene.
This should however not deter or worry us, but should
encourage our brothers and sisters gifted in that area to strive for nothing
short of the best. In our own homeland,
for a while, running was the preserve of the Kalenjins and Kipsigis and you
know…their kin; but this trend has changed with other tribes traditionally not
considered runners entering the race. I
therefore think that in the same manner we can welcome Ethiopia and any other
country that is interested to go ahead and compete…..and may the best man/woman
win.
Am not an athlete, heck I don`t even go to the gym but I know
that with practice we can get better at what we do. I know that, Kenya not
getting gold medals in most of the long distance races have got many like me
wondering …are we losing our “thingi?”
But I will take heart because ….i believe it was written by some person in
history….that Kenya`s thingi will be
running and will be crowned for that (ok wishful thinking) but at least, it
makes me have hope.
In other news, like many other observers i`d like to take
issue with the Olympics organizers; some of the sports one has to compete in
are ridiculous for Africans, let alone Kenyans. How in heavens name do they
expect Anyango in Kisumu to do gymnastics or our sisters in luhya land let
alone our Nigerian sisters to attempt the same? I think Africans need to come
up with games that take into consideration the African physique and enter them
in the Olympics. Any wonder that swimming is represented by the Dunford
brothers? Not sure if being white or
light skinned has anything to do with it, but the Olympics should be
considerate and either have some of these games competed separately or Africans
to just get with it, eat less and go discover new games.
Either way, the diversity of the Olympics games, I think is
its down fall.
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