Middle-distance legend David Rudisha has been appointed as an ambassador for the World Championships in Athletics. World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 24will be held from March 1st to March 3rd.
The Kenyan great is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time world champion over 800 meters. He is no stranger to the city of Glasgow, having competed in the Commonwealth Games in 2014, where he won a silver medal.
“I'm looking forward to returning to Glasgow for this big competition on our calendar. I'm really excited,” he said.
“Sports has made me who I am and anything to do with sports makes me feel very happy. I'm looking forward to meeting the fans and promoting this sport. ”
Rudisha has other fond memories of competing on British soil. The most iconic performance of his career, a world record-breaking 1:40.91, came when he won the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
Rudisha, now 35 years old, is delighted to take on the role of ambassador for the first World Championship in 2024.
“I'm really honored,” Rudisha said. Her Rudisha competed in six world championships during her career and won gold medals in five of them. She said: “As an athlete, anything I can do to inspire young athletes to win medals on the world stage makes me feel really special.
“The 2014 Commonwealth Games was very special and my experience in Glasgow is a beautiful memory. People were so kind and supportive. I won a silver medal in that race, but regardless of my final place. , it was clear that the crowd was supporting and cheering all the players on.”
Rudisha, a two-time Olympic champion in the number one Olympic sport, understands how important it is for athletes to get off to a strong start this year in preparation for the 2024 Paris Games.
“The Olympics dominate all sports,” he said. “It means a lot to qualify for the Olympics. It’s not always easy, but I wish the best of luck to all the athletes who are working hard this season and trying to make a name for themselves and make history in this sport. .”
He's looking forward to witnessing everything happening in Glasgow, but naturally Rudisha's eye will be drawn to one event in particular.
“Obviously the 800m is my favorite,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the 400-meter run as I’ve already set a time.
“Femke Boll's 49-second indoor run at the beginning of the season was truly impressive. I'm looking forward to seeing the athletes do their best on the world indoor stage.”
The World Indoor Championships, to be held from March 1 to 3, will feature more than 700 athletes from around 130 countries competing for medals in 26 events.
