NAIROBI, Kenya, May 7 – World javelin champion Anderson Peters says he is looking to get in touch with his African roots during his one-week stay in Kenya for next weekend’s Kip Keino Classic.
The Grenadian expressed his excitement at making a first-ever journey to ‘motherland’ Africa, adding that he is keen on making the most of this maiden visit.
“I am just looking to get involved in the traditions here and learning more about the roots of the African people. I don’t know much about Kenya; it is my first time here but am looking forward to familiarising myself with this place,” Peters said.
Peters added that he is intrigued by the Kenyan flag and is looking forward to knowing more about the symbolism behind the national colours.
“I noticed the Kenyan flag…like I was looking at the symbols and noticed there are two spears on it. So, I’d like to know what is the culture behind the two spears,” he said.
The two-time world champion was speaking at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, early Monday morning, on arrival in the country for the fourth edition of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold event.
Peters will be meeting familiar foes in the javelin category, including the 2016 Olympics javelin silver medalist Julius Yego of Kenya.
The Commonwealth Games silver medalist described Yego as a long-time buddy with who he has rubbed shoulders at various international competitions.
“I’ve been competing with him since 2017 and following his career closely. I know him pretty well…he is a very good competitor and I am looking forward to competing against him once again,” Peters said.
Despite being the outstanding favourite on Saturday, the 25-year-old said he will be simply taking in the electrifying atmosphere at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani as he enjoys himself on the field.
“As it is my first time, I am simply looking forward to competing in front of the home crowd. I really appreciate javelin and I know Yego is a javelin thrower from here so I am looking forward to a supportive crowd for the javelin event,” he said.
Other competitors in the javelin category on Saturday include two-time African Games champion Abdelrama Ihab of Egypt, Belgium’s Timothy Herman, South Africa’s Smit Douw, Portugal’s Leandro Ramos and Latvia’s Roland Strobinders, among others.
