Odira eyes a statement performance in Glasgow

Odira, who is making her debut in the quadrennial event, is using the championship as her build up to the World Athletics Ultimate Championship scheduled for 11–13 September 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.

“For me, the Commonwealth Games are a build-up for the Ultimate Championships at the end of the season. Nonetheless, I’m here to make a statement and I’m going for a medal,” Odira said in a post-match interview.

Odira was delighted to win her heat 2 in a time of 2:01.05 on Monday, beating Great Britain’s Isabelle Boffey and Jamaica’s Kelly-Ann Beckford.

She dismissed the race as easy, noting that her aim was simply to qualify for the semis.

“The race was not easy as you said but for me personally I’m so grateful. I was here today just to make it to the semi-finals and that’s the most important thing.” 

The 27-year-old added that she is in good shape and her body is responding well to the gruelling weather conditions.

“It’s so windy and cold but my body is responding well. We have to adjust to the conditions—be it sunny, windy or rainy—because that’s what we face in other countries and even back at home,” said Odira.

Odira will be looking to write more history by adding the Commonwealth title to her World title, which she won last year in her debut.

The 800m semis and final are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday respectively.