NAIROBI, Jan. 24 (Xinhua) -- World Half marathon champion Geoffrey Kamworor of Kenya has recovered from a back problem that limited his sprint at last year's New York Marathon and is ready to launch his World Cross Country title campaign.
"I had issues with my back, but that's part of the game and it is two months since. I have healed and will now focus on cross country," Kamworor said on Thursday in Nairobi.
His manager Jos Hermens says Kamowror has the potential to win when he is in top form.
"In New York Marathon, he suffered a back problem and these things happen. But he will be back in cross country and from there we shall see." Hermens said.
Kenya is seeking to firm its grip on the cross country in a year that there are plenty of competition.
Alongside the World Cross Country in Aarhus of Denmark in March, there is the Africa Games in Casablanca, Morocco, the World Championships in Doha, Qatar, The World Relay Championships in Bahamas and the IAAF Diamond League circuit.
However, in his quest to return to top form and secure a ticket to the World Cross Country Championships, Kamworor will launch his campaign with Kenya Police Championships in Nairobi on Saturday.
It is a competition he has won in the last five editions. However, he will be up against spirited challenge from Commonwealth Games 5,000m champion Augustine Choge, Emmanuel Bett and World 1500m champion Elijah Manangoi.
"It is always an honor to compete locally for my team. It prepares me for the national championships and trials where the top two athletes will get the ticket to make the national team," said Kamworor.
"I have prepared well and ready for the challenge. Definitely, I will be going for top finish in Aarhus if I make the national team. I know I'm capable of winning a fourth title," said Kamworor.
