Solomon Mutisya's lofty dream ahead of Africa Junior show

Little known athlete Solomon Mutisya Mutuku is plotting big ahead of facing a strong field at the upcoming Africa U18/20 championships in Ndola, Zambia from Saturday, April 29 to Wednesday, May 3.

It will be Mutuku’s first time representing the country and he is optimistic of posting good results over the men’s 3000m Steeplechase under-20 race.

“Kenya has strong athletes and I was able to compete during the trials and win. When I go to Zambia, I want to replicate that performance or even perform much better. I want to go and work hard and bring something good home,” Mutuku said.

During the national trials held at the Nyayo National Stadium on April 7 and 8, Mutuku obliterated a strong field to win the 3000m SC race in 8:50.39 ahead of Emmanuel Wafula who settled for second place in 8:51.36.

After the win, Mutuku expressed his excitement about getting a direct ticket to the continental show.

“The race has been good…I have not faced any challenges. My goal was to come here and win and I am happy. Going forward, I want to listen to the coach’s advice so I can bring home a medal,” he said.

He is the second-born son of Joseph Ilovi, AK youth development secretary who has managed the teams to many international championships.

Mutuku trains at the Ndumbe Athletics Camp in Mbumbuni, Machakos County under the tutelage of coach Peter Muteti.

The junior athletes are expected to leave the country on Thursday, April 27 for the continental show.