TheCable

Forty-two African countries were present in Asaba for the Delegates Registration Meeting (DRM) on Tuesday as the countdown to the Africa Senior Athletics Championships continues.

The officials praised the Local Organising Committee, LOC, headed by Solomon Ogba for the innovation and creativity displaced so far in the organisation of the competition.

Speaking to journalists after the DRM, the Kenyan team leader, Abraham Mutai said that his country are taking the championships very seriously as they are plotting to emerge as the overall champion in the five-day event.

“For your information, World Champion Julius Yego is coming with us to Asaba so you know we as a nation is taking this championship very seriously,” he said.

“In South Africa two years ago, we were number two but this time we want the number one position and we hope our dream will come true.”

Mutai added that while Kenya would be looking to consolidate on their strengths which are in the long-distance races, they will be working towards conquering new grounds; especially in the field events and some short distance races including the 100m where he admitted that Nigeria remains a force to be reckoned with.

On his part, the scribe of the Ethiopia Athletics Federation, Bililign Mekoya, said he was very impressed with the superb facilities in place; adding that Ethiopia who are coming with the largest contingent would be gunning for as many medals as possible.

“We have seen the facility and it is new; so we are happy, we are targeting many medals as possible especially in the long distance races,” he said.

“We are bringing some new athletes and the experienced ones also, we are looking forward to a nice championship.

Over 52 African countries are expected at the 2018 African Senior Athletics Championships which will take place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium from August 1-5.