David Rudisha (Athletics)

The latest in a long line of Kenyan two-lap specialists, the 23-year-old world record holder will be aiming for his first Olympic gold when he lines up in the 800 meters in London.

Rudisha, a Maasai tribe warrior, set a world record of 1:41.09 in Berlin in 2010 and then a few weeks later lowered it again to 1:41.01. He is the current world champion and was voted world athlete of the year for 2011.

London Olympic chairman Sebastian Coe will have a keen eye on the lanky Rudisha's performance, having once held the world record over the distance himself. Rudisha said watching videos of Coe inspired him to run.

David Lekuta Rudisha of Kenya celebrates winning the men's 800 metres final at the IAAF World Championships in Daegu in this Aug 30, 2011 file photograph.[Photo/Agencies]