The 800m World Record Holder and two-time Olympic Champion, David Rudisha speaks at a press conference in Nairobi, on Dec 2, 2019. (PHOTO / AFP)

NAIROBI — Olympic 800m champion David Rudisha believes the world will overcome the coronavirus scourge and return to normal business in due time.

Rudisha, who faces a personal test to be fit and defend his title at the rescheduled 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games, has likened the challenge the world is undergoing due to the global coronavirus to the hard work he endured and then the feat he attained in 2012 London Games where he obliterated his rivals to win the gold in a world record time of 1:40.91.

"My world record at London Olympic Games in 2012 was a personal lifetime achievement. Today, I am asking you to join me in a collective effort to win the race against the coronavirus," Rudisha said on Friday in Nairobi.

My world record at London Olympic Games in 2012 was a personal lifetime achievement. Today, I am asking you to join me in a collective effort to win the race against the coronavirus

David Rudisha, Olympic 800m champion

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A series of injuries and near-fatal accident almost ended Rudisha's career prematurely, but the 31-year-old seeks to rebound and defend his title as he has recovered from the problems and is seriously working around the clock to be fit.

But of biggest concern to him now is being safe and healthy.

"If you want to go fast, then go alone. If you want to go far, you will have to go with others. Together we can beat this virus. Together let us make this a lifetime achievement because it is all about protecting your own health and that of others," Rudisha noted.

The Kenyan has not raced since June 2017. This has led to him gaining weight and losing focus.

But he has turned over the cliff and is seriously working to shed off the excess weight and his coach Colm O'Connell says the postponed games will do him more good than harm.

"Certainly he would have not been fit for the 2020 Tokyo Games. But with the games moved to 2021, he has a realistic chance to be in Tokyo and do what he aspires most, win the Olympic gold," said coach O'Connell.

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But with the group training and athletes' camps banned, Rudisha will hibernate to his base in Ngong and put in hours on the treadmill and hill running to get back to his fitness.

He has since been appointed one of the ambassadors to champion the message to ask the public to stay at home.

"Greet each other from a distance, and avoid handshaking or hugging. Tap your heart as a sign of respect to your friend or sporting opponent. At all costs, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Clean your hands often. Together, let us make this a lifetime achievement," said Rudisha.