President Uhuru Kenyatta’s aide de camp (ADC), Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Stelu Lekolol, broke tradition while guarding the Head of State at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, September 18.
Lekolol could not hide his emotion as he joined the President, dignitaries and other Kenyans in celebrating sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala’s record-breaking 100 metres race at the Kip Keino Classics.
The usually strict, calm and composed bodyguard was awestruck by Omanyala’s exploits as he finished second behind American Trayvon Bromel, with American legend Justin Gatlin coming third.
Lekolol clapped and pointed at the sprinters and cheered on as Omanyala set a record 9.77 to be the fastest African to grace the 100 metres race. Coleman (9.76).
As Omanyala completed the race, coming in as second runners up, Uhuru’s aide de camp was spotted nearly jumping up. That was the first time ever, the Kenya Navy official publicly displayed his emotion and also a passion for his country.
Lekolol was the first Navy ADC in history to guard and aid a Kenyan President. He became Uhuru’s third ADC, succeeding Lt-Col Victor Mburu and Lt-Col Peter Njiru.
His major roles include receiving gifts and other items on behalf of the president, escorting the president into a waiting car, opening the vehicle’s door, carrying the President's personal items and other delegated duties.
After the race, Uhuru congratulated Omanyala who had also recorded his personal best time.
“I have conquered Africa, next I’m going for the World record. I promised my fans a good show and I’m happy I delivered,” Omanyala vowed.
American Gatlin heaped praised on Omanyala stating that the home support was crucial in Omanyala’s success.
“He used the hometown support really well. I believe Omanyala will be a force to reckon with,” Gatlin lauded.
Omanyala became the eighth fastest athlete in the world behind Jamaican Usain Bolt (9.58), Tyson Gay (9.69), Yohan Blake (9.69), Asafa Powell (9.72), Americans Justin Gatlin (9.74), Trayvon BromeLL (9.76), Christian
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