400m sensation Moraa anchors Kenya to mixed relays final

Kenya’s Mary Moraa in the 4 X 400 mixed relay event at the IAAF World U-18 championships at Kasarani stadium on July 15, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Kelvin Sawe took off the blocks well but stayed third upon handing over to Gloria Mulee, who battled to bring the gap between them and leaders Jamaica and Brazil.

World Under-18 400m silver medallist Mary Moraa anchored Kenya to victory in 4x400m mixed relays on Saturday as the team stormed the final at the World Under-18 Championships.

Kelvin Sawe took off the blocks well but stayed third upon handing over to Gloria Mulee, who battled to bring the gap between them and leaders Jamaica and Brazil.

It’s third man David Sanayek who dug in to give Kenya the lead before passing the baton to Moraa, who was overtaken Alision Brendom from Brazil with 300m to go.

However, Moraa pumped up the pistons to waylay the Brazilian at the last bend as she also waded off strong challenge from Jamaica’s Tyresse Reid to win the race in 3 minutes and 24.76 seconds.

It was the fastest time over the two-semi-finals, putting Kenya on the inner lane Sunday's final.

Jamaica came in second in 3:25.61 followed by Brazil in 3:25.64. Ukraine claimed the second 4x400m mixed relay semi-final in 3:27.34, beating South Africa to second in 3:28.87 and Romania 3:28.93.

“Sanayek’s momentum helped bridge the gap but we shall improve on our start for a strong finish during the final,” said Moraa. Sanayek said they are determined to better the show for victory in the final.