Noah Lyles. Insert- Ferdinand Omanyala

Ferdinand Omanyala has explained why athletes like Noah Lyles like to pull off intimidating pre-race antics before races, while explaining why he personally prefers not to do them.

Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala has opened up about his mental resilience, personal motivation, and why he chooses humility over flamboyant pre-race antics — a subtle contrast to global rivals like American star Noah Lyles.

Speaking candidly about his mindset on Sporty FM, Omanyala revealed that his approach to sprinting is deeply personal and grounded in his upbringing rather than the spectacle of competition. 

“I’m not here to impress or compete with anyone — I’m here to change the storyline,” he said. “I come from a very humble family and a place where the houses tell sad stories. So for me, this is about fighting the battles our parents never won.”

The Commonwealth Games 100m champion, who has risen to global prominence as a trailblazer for African sprinting, says maintaining composure under pressure is one of his biggest strengths. 

He describes sprinting as being “90 percent mental,” emphasizing how the world’s top sprinters often use psychological tactics to unsettle each other before a race.

“In the blocks, it’s not just about speed — it’s about the mind,” he said. “Some guys will throw dust or pour water on your lane, or even jump in front of you during introductions. It’s all meant to shake your confidence. These are the small psychological games people play in sprinting.”

While such pre-race showmanship and mind games have become part of modern athletics — often exemplified by athletes like Lyles who thrive on charisma — Omanyala insists that he operates differently. “I’m not that kind of athlete,” he said firmly. 

“I respect every competitor who steps on that start line because I know how hard it is to get there.”

Omanyala revealed that recovering from a serious injury earlier this year reinforced that sense of respect. “After what I went through, I’ve lived that journey. I know what it takes to come back. So, intimidating others isn’t in me — it’s not who I am,” he said.

The Kenyan star also spoke about the mental toughness required to withstand public scrutiny and expectations. “If I stopped running today, people would move on to the next athlete. Nobody will take care of your bills or your dreams,” he reflected.

 “So I wake up every day knowing that the dream is mine to carry. Not my family’s, not anyone else’s — mine.”

Omanyala says his philosophy helps him stay grounded amid fame and pressure, reminding him of why he runs. “Every time I step onto the track, I remember that quote — I’m not here to impress anyone. I’m just here to change the story for the next generation,” he said.

As one of Africa’s leading sporting figures, Omanyala’s maturity and composure have set him apart, making him not just a record-breaking sprinter but a symbol of integrity and mental strength.