BY MWANAHABARI REPORTER
Ferdinand Omanyala has promised to take care of her long-term girlfriend after the Kenyan speedster was gifted with a free vehicle worth Sh3.5 million by a local betting firm.
Omanyala, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic semifinalists set a new Africa record last Saturday at the Kip Keino Classic-a Gold label World Athletics Continental Tour that was staged at Kasarani.
Beating Gatlin
I the race where he also lowered the national record (100metres) in a new time of 9.77, Omanyala beat former Olympic champion, Justin Gatlin.
But it was the revelation that his sweetheart, Lanevta Lutavi used to pay his rent when he was broke, that stole the show after the couple zoomed past the guest in their new SUV, to their latest address, in Kasarani.
“I remember in February, I was staying in Huruma, by the way. When we went to them (Odibet) I told them that life is hard.
A blessing in disguise
“Last year, during the Corona period…it was a hard year but for me, it was like a blessing in disguise because I trained (for) six months without any competition,” said Omanyala who admitting to feeling the pangs of Covid-19 during the lockdown.
But after receiving a brand new car and with money starting to come from appearing at high-paying events like the Diamond League and Kip Keino Classic, Omanyala has now vowed to return the favour by paying back the love and support he once received from his soulmate.
“I was training without any goals. I was training because I want to get better than I was yesterday. I trained for six months and we had no money. Thanks to my girlfriend, she was the one who was paying the rent and.
I feel good
“She was taking care of the bills because she was working. She used to bring her salary on the table then budget; some for (my transport) training, some for rent and some for food.
“I would come back from training and find that she has prepared hot water for my shower. I used to feel good.
“So the point where I have reached, I want to take care of her. She will get anything that she wants. She’s been part of this journey.
Early this year, Omanyala received Sh1.5 million from the same sponsor in addition to the Sh200,000 government reward for every athlete who took part at the Tokyo Games.