NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 7 – Commonwealth Games 800m champion Mary Moraa admits she will need a lot of divine intervention if she is to clinch the World title at August’s World Championships in Budapest.
The World 800m bronze medalist is widely tipped by many to clinch gold in the Hungarian capital but she thinks such predictions are null and void without God in it.
“As I have said before, I am looking for a podium finish in Budapest. I’ve been in the form of my life but if I say that means I will win gold, then it would be premature. I know all the other athletes I will face have similarly worked hard and will present a portent threat to me,” Moraa said.
Moraa added that her morale has gone through the roof ever since she clocked 1:57.07 to win the Commonwealth title in Birmingham.
She is hoping that her confidence remains sky high as she heads to Budapest for another shot at the world title.
“After Birmingham, I saw that my morale had gone up a lot. I have also had older athletes who have been mentoring me and guiding me. I am looking to continue on the same path to Budapest and I hope I will be in top shape when I get to the start line,” she said.
Moraa was at her usual best on Friday afternoon when she clocked a national record of 50.38 to win the women’s 400m at the national trials for the World Championships at Nyayo Stadium.
Mercy Odongo finished second in 52.22 as Maureen Nyatichi came third in 52.75.
Moraa was elated at her feat, expressing her desire for more of the same.
“It is something I am so proud of…I thank God for it and look forward to breaking more records,” she said.
Moraa added: “I don’t know about doubling in the 400m and 800m. That is something I leave to the selection panel. For me, my focus is on the women’s 800m where I hope for a podium finish.”
She will be expected to compete in the women’s 800m final as the national trials enter the final day on Saturday.
