Coach Peter Mathu expects the country to win six gold medals at the London Olympics starting later this month in London.

Mathu, who handled the team at last year's World athletic Championship in Daegu, said there are high hopes for the country to do even better than the Beijing Games four years ago.

Mathu said world 800m champion and record holder David Rudisha (800m), Asbel Kiprop (1,500m), Brimin Kipruto(3000m steeplechase) and Vivian Cheruiyot (5,000m) were sure bets for medals. He said he also expect gold medals from both the men and women's marathon. "This time round, we have stronger team than the last Olympics in Beijing. The team comprises Africa, Olympic and world champions," he added.

Mathu, however, admitted that Pamela Jelimo will face a little of some challenge in the in defending her title in London. "She has regained her best form but she will meet runners who are running 1:57, which is the same time she is doing. I guess the whole affair may come down to race tactics and this will no doubt be a tough race to call," he added.

Mathu said Kenya may miss out on medals in the men's 5,000 and 10,000m, owing to a strong form and pedigree of world champion and home favourite Mo Farah and the Ethiopian contingent. Mathu said the Kenyan team must improve their last lap times if they harbour any hopes of winning gold in both events. " For instance Mo Farah and the Ethiopian athletes are clocking 51-53 second in the last 400 meters and our best is doing 56. Therefore you can see there is a gap of three seconds and we must reduce the gap to have any chance," added Mathu.

He urged Kenyan athletes not to underrate the competition in London. "It's going to be very competitive and we must not underestimate the competition in London," he added.