David Rudisha, the world record holder in the 800m, has been appointed the World Athletics ambassador for the World Indoor Championships scheduled for March 1-3 in Glasgow, Scotland.
The two-time Olympic champion will be returning to Glasgow, where he clinched a silver medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Expressing his anticipation for the event, Rudisha stated, “I am looking forward to going back to Glasgow for this major competition in our calendar. I am really excited.” He emphasized his deep connection with sports, highlighting its role in shaping his identity. “Sport is what has made me who I am today, and anything to do with sport makes me feel very happy. I am looking forward to meeting the fans and promoting the sport.”
It was in the United Kingdom that Rudisha set the 800m world record of 1:40.91 during the 2012 Olympics in London.
Now, at 35 years old, he is delighted to assume the role of ambassador for the first global championships of 2024. “I really feel honored,” said Rudisha, reflecting on his extensive career that saw him win gold at five out of six global championships he participated in. “As an athlete, anything I can do to inspire younger athletes to win medals on the world stage really makes me feel special.”
Recalling his experience at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Rudisha shared, “The 2014 Commonwealth Games was very special; I have beautiful memories of my experience in Glasgow.” He expressed gratitude for the warm support from the crowd, regardless of athletes’ finishing positions.
As a double Olympic champion, Rudisha recognizes the significance of a strong start to the season ahead of the Paris 2024 Games. “The Olympics is at the helm of any sport,” he emphasized. “To participate at the Olympics means a lot.
It’s not always easy, so I wish athletes the best as they work hard for this season and try to make their name and write their history in this sport.”
While eagerly anticipating the events in Glasgow, Rudisha revealed his keen interest in the 800m race, his favorite event. He also expressed excitement about the 400m, particularly highlighting Femke Bol’s impressive early-season performance.
The World Indoor Championships, scheduled from 1-3 March, will witness over 700 athletes from around 130 nations competing across 26 disciplines. Among them, Africa’s 100m record holder Ferdinand Omanyala will lead a contingent of 13 Kenyan athletes participating in the championship.
