World hammer silver medallist Kassanavoid eyes glory at Nyayo on Saturday

World women’s hammer throw silver medallist Janee Kassanavoid arrived in the country full of high spirits ahead of her title defence in the fifth edition of Absa Kip Keino Classic showdown at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday.

The American who landed at the Jomo Kenyatta International  Airport on Wednesday night expressed her elation at competing in the global showpiece for the fourth time.

“I am super excited to be back to the country. I am looking forward to starting off my season on a sound note,” Kassanavoid said.

The 29-year-old said she will be simply looking to enjoy herself as she ramps up her preparations for the summer Olympics in Paris.

“I am going to just have fun and try to knock the rust off. I haven’t competed since August so this is sort of my season-opener. I am looking to open with something big and it would be fun,” she said.

Despite being out of competition for sometime, Kassanavoid declared she is in great shape.

“I have been keeping myself fit and staying healthy. I have been getting strong again and obviously with Paris on the horizon, it is going to be a big season. It is a good meet this weekend,” she said.

Kassanavoid will come up against four-time world champion Anita Wlodarczyk of Poland – among other competitors – and will be looking to defend the crown she won at last year’s edition of this World Continental Tour Gold event.