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Shot put ace Belinda Oburu upbeat AHEAD oF first AK Track and Field Meet in nairobi
Baringo Cross-Country champion Geoffrey Rono leads other contestants during Athletics Kenya Nairobi Cross-Country Championships at Nairobi West Prisons Grounds.PHOTO/ COURTESY. The first Athletics Kenya (AK) Track and Field Meet will kick-off on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.The championships has attracted 400 athletes from a cross the country who will be in action to gauge their shape ahead of international events lined up this season.
Among the contestants is the Kenya Defence Forces shot put ace Belinda Oburu who will be looking forward to take her 13.49m personal best to the next level.
“Shot put has attracted many athletes this year, we are hopeful to see a lot of upsets in the discipline,” women’s national record holder Elizabeth Olaba told Standard Sports.Olaba’s national record in shot put (15.39m), set during the All Africa Games at Moi International Sports Center Kasarani in 1987, is yet to be broken.The AK Nairobi branch chairman Barnaba Korir said Nyayo Stadium was chosen to host the two day event due to its fine tartan track.
“The competition was initially to be a one day event, but we realised it is important to have it for two days so athletes running long distances can have a chance to compete in the finals,” Korir said.Korir believes the weekend meet will help the athletes to test their might after preparing for so long for the international championships slated for this year.
Most were locked out of major competitions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.Among the global championships the contestants are looking forward to qualify for include the World Championships in Oregon, US ( July 15-24,2022), Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Britain (August 2-7,2022), Africa Senior Athletics Championships in Reduit, Mauritius ( June 8-12, 2022) and the World Indoors Championships in Belgrade, Serbia (March 18-20, 2022).
“The athletes will use the AK weekend meets to step up training for the international events.”Some of them have gone to Europe where they will compete this weekend to earn qualification for the World Indoors.
Athletics Kenya Nairobi Branch Chairman and National Olympics Committee-Kenya Executive Member Barnaba Korir. PHOTO/ BARNABA KORIR. “We will see who performs well as we are in the process of assembling a team for the Belgrade showpiece,” says Korir.The National Olympics Committee-Kenya Executive Member explained that Kenya will enter two athletes each in the six categories the country will contest at the World Indoors.”By next week we shall know who makes the team, we will ensure the squad meets anti-doping requirements,” said Korir.
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Stellar athletes grace launch of inaugural GirlsRun Marathon in Iten
Rubis Energy Group Managing Director & CEO East Africa, Jean- Christian Bergeron, flags off school girls during the GirlsFun Run ceremony. PHOTO/COURTESY. Athletics: GirlsRun to prevent periodic poverty
Athletics: Stellar athletes grace launch of inaugural GirlsRun Marathon in Iten
The race seeks to promote menstrual hygiene among girls.
Ochieng Oyugi
Two-time Edinburgh Marathon champion Caroline Jepchirchir is among the host of elite athletes who graced the launch of the inaugural GirlsRun Marathon at St.Peters Iten Primary School, Elgeyo Marakwet at the weekend.The race which seeks to promote menstrual hygiene among girls will be held in Iten in October.”You can miss going to school because you are sick but you should not miss going to school because you are in your periods,” Jepchirchir said.The double Belfast Marathon winner urged the government to facilitate all school going girls with free sanitary pads.She said pads should also be made cheaper for the women to buy to manage their periods.
Rubis Energy Group Managing Director & CEO East Africa, Jean- Christian Bergeron (second left), presents reusable sanitary towels to Sheila Jemeli (a class 7 pupil at Munoo primary school in Iten). PHOTO/ COURTESY. Jepchirchir’s sentiments were supported by a host of other world beaters who were in attendance.They included Shanghai Half Marathon (China) winner David Kipruto, Corida 10km winner (France) Gladys Yator, Putrajaya Half Marathon winner (Malaysia) Godwin Kipruto and Selestat 10km winner (France) Sarah Lagat.Others were Baiya and Kavildo marathons (Argentina) winner Julian Alombo and Bonsares (Argentina) marathon winner Hussein Cein.Elgeyo Marakwet Athletics Kenya’s representative, Christopher Kosgei, advised the athletes to run clean during the race.”We will also have the 21km and 10km categories that will be contested by both men and women,” Kosgei said.RUBiS Energy Kenya Group Managing Director Jean-Christian Bergeron assured they will support the race and distribution of sanitary pads to help maintain girls in schools.“The GirlsRun gives us the opportunity to promote health, education and physical activity as a catalyst to raise awareness and support around the issue of girls health and wellbeing. “Our focus on menstrual hygiene and period poverty initiatives through the donation of the reusable sanitary padkits will help the girls access the products they need.”The product will boost their confidence while uplifting the women groups and the local economy in an environmentally conscious manner,” saidBergeron. Other partners on board to aid the race includes the Women Development Centre (WODEC) and Kenya Community Sports Foundation (KESOFO).Wodec Director, Milkah Cherotich said they produce locally reusable sanitary pad kits which will be given to the girls.She demonstrated to the over 1300 girls from various schools in the region how to wear, wash and re-use the pads.“We are pleased to partner with RUBiS to support girls to stay in school and reach their potential. “Through their funding, we have been able to host sessions on menstrual hygiene management, produce and distribute washable sanitary pads to the hard-to-reach girl populations in Kenya,” said Cherotich.Kesofo CEO Wesley Chirchir said his organisation is very proud to see that sports is being used as an avenue to raise awareness on key issues affecting the communities.“We are extremely grateful that we have been entrusted to organize this sports event aimed at overcoming “period shame” by providing vulnerable girls with sanitary towels and information about menstrual management,” said Chirchir.
Rubis Energy Group Managing Director & CEO East Africa, Jean- Christian Bergeron (left), interacts with Lynn Chebet (centre) a professional athlete and Girls Run Period- Founder, Susan Namulindwa during The GirlsRun initiative seeks to support the Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) program. PHOTO/ COURTESY.
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“Through the marathon, girls will know how to manage their periods and this will give them a lot of confidence in life.” WODEC Director Milkah Cherotich.
UTILITIES
Caroline Jepchirchir’s achievements
2015: Family Bank Marathon champion
2018: Belfast Marathon champion
2018: Edinburg Marathon champion
2019:Belfast Marathon champion (defends)
2019: Edinburgh Marathon champion (defends) -
Eldoret to Host 7th Leg of “Road to Gleneagles” Johnnie Walker Golf Series
A golfer follows his tee during the Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series Sigona leg. PHOTO/ COURTESY. Nairobi, Thursday, 27th January 2022: At least 100 golfersare expected to tee off at the Eldoret Golf Club this Saturday for the seventh edition of the Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series.
The golfers, who will play in the competition’s four-ball, stableford format at the par 72 Eldoret Golf Club course, will tee off starting 0700 Hours.
The golfers will battle it out at the 9-hole, par 70 golf course as they aim to make the cut for the series’ semi-finals dubbed the Eagles’ Round to be played at Muthaiga Golf Club. This will then be followed with the Grand Finale where a fully paid trip to the iconic Gleneagles Golf Course in Scotland will be up for grabs.
Former Rugby star Lavin Asego follows his tee at Sigona Golf Club during the sixth edition of the Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Serie. PHOTO/ COURTESY. The event follows the Sigona Golf Club leg played on 15th January where Home player Sam King’ori led Roy Njau, Peter Waweru, and George Gitau to card a combined 114 Stableford points to emerge the overall winners of the leg. Their nearest challengers were the team comprising Sawan Shah, Gurtej Phull, Milka Mburu and Sawan Raikundalia whose efforts returned a score of 113 Stableford points. Claiming third place was the team of Sophie Liu, Rima Patel, Dr. Mary Wainaina, and Zipporah Wachira who hit 108 stableford points.
The three joined the list of teams that have already qualified to play in the next round.
Former Kenyan Rugby international Humphrey Kayange follows his tee at Sigona Golf Club during the sixth edition of the Road to Gleneagles John. PHOTO/ COURTESY. Speaking ahead of the tournament, KBL Marketing Manager for Spirits Josephine Katambo said; “This has been a great competitive tournament. Since we began in January, we have seen the great progression of strength to strength, and we are looking forward to the remaining events as we take the momentum of the event over to those other clubs. As we head to Eldoret, we can only expect an amazing golfing experience and also get to interact with our customers from the North Rift region,” said Katambo.
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Robson Chinhoi Wins Limuru Leg Safari Tour
Robson Chinhoi poses with his trophies having emerged winner of the Safari Tour Gold series played at Limuru Country Club. PHOTO/COURTESY. LIMURU- Kenya, January 26, 2022: Zimbabwe’s Robson Chinhoi beat Kenya’s Erick Ooko by four shots, to claim the sixth leg of the 2021/2022 Safari Tour series at the par 72 Limuru Country Club course on Wednesday
Starting the day in third place behind the third-round leaders Justus Madoya and Ooko, Chinhoi produced a round of two under par 70 despite having bogeyed two holes in the final round, a score which saw clinch the title with an aggregate of two under par 286.
“This is not the kind of sores I had anticipated, but all the same, I am happy to have emerged the winner against very good players Madoya and Ooko’’ said Chinhoi who had bogeyed the second hole and at the 15th in the back nine, with birdies coming on the third, seventh, 12th and 18th holes.
“I am looking forward for the remaining two events at Karen and Muthaiga where I hope to return better scores as we gear towards the Magical Kenya Open’’ added Chinhoi who leads the regional players in the “Road to Magical Kenya open’’ with a total of 104 points.
Besides the trophy, Chinhoi picked up a Sh319,091 cheque, as Ooko who had an awful back nine, finished second with two over par 290 after posting four over par 76 in the final round.
Ooko blamed his takeoff from the tee particularly at the back nine where he dropped four shots, with only one birdie on his card.
“I was really looking forward to win this event having led in three rounds, but my tee shots let me down today and in particular at the back nine where I was either pulling to the left of hitting to the right. This made it difficult for me hit enough greens on regulation’’ said Ooko who however took home Sh176,364.
“I know I have qualified for the Open, but I would like to win the remaining events because that will give the confidence in need as we approach the Magical Kenya Open’’ added the Golf Park based Ooko.
Zimbabwean Robson Chinhoi – winner of the Safari Tour Golf Series played at the Limuru Country Club. PHOTO/ COURTESY. It was equally a bad day for Great Rift Valley Golf Resort based Madoya who picked a bogey after a bogey during the day with a double at the ninth completely ruining his chances of clinching a back to back victory, having won the Uganda Open last month at Entebbe Golf Club.
He finally had to settle in fourth place on five over par 293 after closing with 79, and a shot worse than third placed Samuel Njoroge who shot 75 for 292. Junior amateur golfer Njoroge Kibugu tied for eighth place with senior pro Dismas Indiza on eight over par 296. He shot two over 74 in the final round same as Indiza.
“I am very happy making the cut for a start though my second round was not very good, but I am working on my game to make sure that I am ready for the Open’’ said Kibugu who is travelling to Cape Town South Africa to play a couple of events and also try and correct some few problems in his game before he returns for the Open.
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Rono, Chebet cruise to victory at AK Nairobi Cross-Country Championships
Final Athletics Kenya Nairobi Branch squad to represent the region at the National Cross-Country Championships at Lobo Village in Eldoret on Saturday January 22, 2022. PHOTO/ENRIQUOYUGI NAIROBI, Kenya- Geoffrey Rono and Emily Chebet cruised to the tape to win the men and the women’s contests at the 2022 Athletics Kenya Nairobi Cross Country Championships held at Nairobi West Prisons Grounds on Saturday.
Rono clocked 27:49.1 while Chebet timed 32:13.2 to punch tickets to the forthcoming National Cross Country Championships to be held at Lobo Village in Eldoret this Saturday.
Rono dedicated the sweet victory to his coach Barnabas Kitilit who recently lost his wife saying: “We stand with our coach and mentor Kitilit during this difficult time.
“I together with the many athlete will be fighting not only to represent our regions but to uplift the spirit of our tactician after losing his beloved wife.
The AK Baringo county branch chairman Kitilit together with the late wife used to accommodate about 60 athletes in his Torongo training camp in Eldama-Ravine subcounty, something Rono is proud about.
Dennis Kipkirui who won the Men U-20 category during the championships.PHOTO/ENRIQUE OYUGI “She was more than a mother to us, she did all she could to make sure we were comfortable at the camp, through her motherly love, so many athletes have made it through her hands. We shall be fighting for her,” added an emotional Rono.
On Saturday, the the 21-year-old stayed in the leading pack before surging ahead to victory in 27:49.1 edging Musa Mitei to second place in in 27:56.1.Meshak Letim from Dagoretti romped home third in 28:11.8.”The race was tough owing to the rich entries. It could have gone either way but I looked stronger with every distance,” said Rono.
Rono finished 14th during the National Cross Country Championships in 2019, but missed out in 2020 and 2021.
“I’m praying for good health devoid of injuries,” said Rono, who will then turn his focus on track where he intends to participate in 1,500m.
“I want to emulate my role model, the World 1,500m champion Timothy Cheruiyot,” said Rono.
Emily Chebet held off Kenyan-born steeplechaser Winfred Yavi of Bahrain to win the thrilling race in 32:13.2Chebet, who finished second last year said it felt good to upgrade to first position.
“It’s a beautiful and humble feeling after I failed to win in the last two editions,” said Chebet, who beat Yavi, the Asian Games 3,000m steeplechase champion, to second in 32:23.7.
Chebet reckoned that Yavi was her only threat. “I tested her for sometime but decided to pull away with two laps to go to see her reaction. She couldn’t sustain my speed,” said Chebet.
Chebet, who finished 20th at last year’s National Cross Country Championships, is now targeting a top six finish during this year’s event due January 22 at Lobo Village, Eldoret.
“I was using this event to test my endurance and speed ahead of the World Indoor Tour,” said Yavi, who will be competing in 1,500m at the indoors in view of polishing on her speed ahead of the busy season.
Yavi said she will be targeting a podium finish in 3,000m steeplechase at the World Athletics Championships programmed from July 15-24 in Oregon, United States.
Mercy Chepkorir from Lang’ata settled third in 33:03.8.
Dennis Kipkirui and Florence Chepkoech are the Under-20 winners.
Kipkirui won in 22:49.2 ahead of Nehemiah Kipyegon who timed 25:59.6 for second place and Peter Kibui who finished third in 23:03.0.
The final squad gets advise from veteran athlete at the venue after the selection. PHOTO: ENRIQUE OYUGI
In the women’s race, Chepkoech, timed 19:33.9 for victory ahead of Triza Cherotich who finished place in 19:49.2 and Yvonne Chepchirchir who clocked 20:02.9 for third place.
In the under 18 category, Fancy Chepkorir and Emmanuel Koisetia took the honours in the girls and boys category respectfully.
Chepkorir, won the girls’ 5km race in 16:10.0.
Chepkorir, beat team mate Dorcas Chepkemoi to second place in 16:28.6 as Sharon Chepkemei came third in 16:35.4.
Koisetia clocked 17:19.9 to win boys’ 6km category, he beat William Kumpe to second place in 17:24.1 as Amos Kipsang claimed the last podium place in 17:42.8. -
King’ori Triumphs at Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series in Sigona
Overall winners from Left – George Gitau, Sam Kingori, Peter Waweru and Roy Njau receive their prizes from Nduku Wamakau (C), EABL’s Business Development Manager for Luxury Brands. PHOTO/COURTESY. Nairobi, Sunday, 15th January 2022: The Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series strode on yesterday at Sigona Golf Club which hosted the sixth leg of the tournament.
A total of 288 golfers converged at the 18-hole golf course to battle it out for the top honors aiming to play at the tournament’s Eagles Round to stand a chance to win a fully paid trip to the iconic Gleneagles Golf Course in Scotland.
Sigona Golf Club’s Sam King’ori led Roy Njau, Peter Waweru, and George Gitau to card a combined 114 Stableford points to emerge the overall winners of the leg. Their nearest challengers were the team comprising Sawan Shah, Gurtej Phull, Milka Mburu and Sawan Raikundalia whose efforts returned a score of 113 Stableford points. Claiming third place was the team of Sophie Liu, Rima Patel, Dr. Mary Wainaina, and Zipporah Wachira who hit 108 stableford points.
The three teams become the latest addition to the list that will take part in the tournament’s semi-finals (Eagle’s Round) to be held at Muthaiga Golf Club in May 2022. Eighteen teams have now qualified for the Muthaiga event with thirteen events still to be held.
In other results, Sam King’ori was back to the podium after emerging the tournament’s Gross Winner after scoring 40 points in the day. Gurtej Phull playing off handicap 25 scored 42 points to emerge as the Men’s Category winner ahead of Jitu Shah (handicap 16) who also posted 42 points.
Left to Right – George Gitau, Sam Kingori, Peter Waweru and Roy Njau pose with their prizes after emerging the overall winners of the 6th leg of the Johnnie Walker Golf Series. PHOTO/ COURTESY. In the Ladies’ Category, Milka Mburu playing off handicap 25 posted 39 points to claim the top spot, ahead of Gakenia Kimani (handicap 30) who scored 38 points.
In the Longest Drive challenge, Karan Patel and Shivani Patel were the stars in the Men and Ladies’ categories respectively.
In the Nines, Kamal Sehmi and Zeeshan Malik emerged the winners in the first and second nines respectively, each having scored 22 points. George Mwaniki meanwhile claimed the Nearest to the Pin challenge prize to close the day’s accolades.
Speaking during the event, Sigona Golf Club Captain Jay Shahthanked KBL for having the series at Sigona as he also applauded the members for coming out in large numbers.
A golfer follows his tee during the Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series Sigona leg. PHOTO/COURTESY. “This has been one of our biggest events in terms of participation and that speaks to the great reception of the Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf series among the golfers. No doubt, the opportunity to play at the Gleneagles Golf Course is one that would excite any avid golfer and I am therefore not surprised by the great turnout. With this, Sigona has set the right standards in terms of participation in such events and that will go a long way in developing the sport. I thank KBL for the opportunity they have accorded us with this series, and hope that the overall winner will come from here,” said Jay Shah.
Ladies’ Category winner Milka Mburu (L) receives her award from Josephine Katambo – EABL’s Marketing Manager for Spirits. PHOTO/ COURTESY. Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony, Kenya Breweries Limited’s (KBL) Marketing Manager for Spirits, Josephine Katambo noted that the series has been well received by the golfing community.
“Sigona is a special venue for golf and a beautiful location that every golfer yearns to play in. Having the Road to GlenEagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series was therefore a no-brainer for us. Today’s event marks the sixth leg of the Series and so far, I am pleased to note that participation in the series has been received very well among the golfing community as, so far, we have had over 700 golfers taking to the course over the six legs,” added Katambo.
Kenyan Rugby international Humphrey Kayange follows his tee at Sigona Golf Club during the sixth edition of the Road to Gleneagles Johnnie Walker Golf Series. PHOTO/COURTESY. She added; “As KBL, we are delighted to offer golfers across the country a tournament of this stature. Our objective for this series is to continue with our long-term commitment to continue supporting the growth and development of the sport in the country,” she added.
Following the event at Sigona, the focus now shifts to Eldoret Golf Club for the seventh edition of the series that will be held on January 29, 2022.
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Aakif Virani named motorsport personality of the year 2021
Arrow Racing Team member Aakif Virani (Right) in a past Kenya National Rally Championship. PHOTO/ COURTESY. Division One Champion Aakif Virani is the 2021 Motorsport Personality of the year.
The Skoda Fabia-R5 driver achieved the feat during a colourful ceremony held at the WRC Safari Rally secretariat in Kasarani.
Aakif beat his closest challenger Carl “Flash” Tundo.
Aakif, who was feted in absentia,, was all smiles for his fairy tale feat and this is what he had to say about his season.
“It’s such a great feeling today (Saturday) to be recognized for my hard work. It hasn’t sunk in yet. I hope to up my game in the 2022 season and perform even better,” said Aakif who spoke to the gala night audience on zoom.
The Nairobi based businessman was voted for the coveted award by Kenya Motor Sport Federation (KMSF) competitors licence holders and Commissions.
Aakif registered his maiden KNRC win on KCB Nanyuki Rally 2021 after Tundo was disqualified for being pushed from the end of the power stage by Jasmeet Chana.
Linet Ayuko was voted the KNRC Navigator of the year after a series of top ten positions.
Ayuko, who navigated Maxine Wahome in Division Two and Hussein Malik in Division One racked up unassailable points in the Division Two navigators championship but failed to meet the 75% threshold to be eligible for a title.
The gala night also awarded the 2021 champions in various motorsport disciplines as well as meritorious achievements.
Division One driver Mcrae Kimathi was awarded the FIA ARC Junior Championship for Drivers as well as the
FIA ARC 3 title.
His navigator Mwangi Kioni savoured his as the FIA ARC 3 Championship for Co-Drivers .
The occasion also saw the chief guest and Sports CS Amb Amina Mohamed officially present the FIA Founding Member’s Club Heritage Cup to winner Robert Dewar. Dewar, the brains behind the annual Africa Concours d’Elegance racked up the trophy at the FIA Awards Gala in Paris in December.
CS Amina lauded all the winners for a great season of motorsports.adding. She expressed optimism in the season ahead adding that the FIA had confirmed that the Safari Rally will retain in its global status for the next five years
“The Safari was the most followed WRC event in 2021 which was a major milestone. We also opened the Safari Rally office in Finland to help market Kenyan products and tourism. What’s more, the Safari Greening Project in which Kenya hopes to plant 18million trees in three years across the country was a major success,” said Amina.
Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) Chairman Phineas launched the National Competition Rules for 2022 announcing major technical changes
Kimathi announced the scrapping of KNRC Premier Class which has been replaced by the existing Division One Class.
He said Rally Raid cars (T1 and T5) will now be allowed to enter the KNRC.
‘Tbe 2021 season was a great success. We were able to incorporate tarmac racing into its schedule by introducing the Motorkhana in Kenya for the first time. This is actually the first awards to feature tarmac events. During the season, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) awarded Kenya the Two- Star Environmental accreditation based on audit information from the 2021 WRC Safari Rally.THE 2021 CHAMPIONS
KENYA NATIONAL TARMAC CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2021
4WD Class Umang SoniKENYA NATIONAL KARTING CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2021
Rookie of the Year Shane Chandaria
Rotax Junior Max Class Walt Alobo
Cadet Comer Class Kris BhanderiKENYA NATIONAL RALLY RAID CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2021
Overall Champion Driver Ross Field
Overall Champion Co – Driver Quentin Savage
Motorcar Class – Prototype Driver Ross Field
Motorcar Class – Prototype Co – Driver Quentin Savage
Motorcar Class – Modified Driver Ian Duncan
Motorcar Class – Modified Co – Driver Jaspal MatharuKENYA NATIONAL 4 x 4 CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2021
Beginner Driver Munene Gitau Jr Co – Driver Gitau Munene
Intermediate Driver Ben Waiyaki Co – Driver Orina Eliud Nyakorai
Expert Driver Gurashish Singh Co – Driver Kunal PatelKENYA NATIONAL AUTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2021
Class 1 – 2wd Non-Turbo Buggy Zameer Verjee
Class 2 – 2wd Non-Turbo Car Rajveer Thethy
Class 3 – 2wd Turbo Buggy Lovejyot Singh
Class 6 – 4wd Turbo Lovejyot Singh
Class 7 – Open Hamza Anwar
Class 8 – Quad Gurraj Singh
Class 9 – Bambino Yuvraj Rajput
Class 10 – Junior 2wd Non-Turbo Brandon Ng’anga
Class 11 – Peewee Kiana RajputKENYA NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2021
Group N Driver Jasmeet Chana Co – Driver Ravi Chana
Division 2 Driver Daren Miranda
Division 1 Driver Aakif Virani Co – Driver Azhar Bhatti
KNRC Driver Carl Tundo
KNRC Navigator Co – Driver Tim Jessop -
Athletics: Former World U-20 champion Edna Jebitok to headline Nairobi Cross Country Championships
Former World U-20 women’s champion Edna Jebitok set to headline Athletics Kenya Nairobi Cross Country Championships at Nairobi West Prisons Grounds on Saturday, January 15, 2022. PHOTO/ COURTESY NAIROBI, Kenya– Athletics Kenya (AK) Nairobi branch will hold its regional Cross-Country Championships at Nairobi West Prisons Grounds on Saturday.
Set to headline the expected cutthroat competition is former World U-20 women’s champion Edna Jebitok who is fresh from a series of competitions in Europe.
The former World-U18 silver medallist is expected to meet tough opposition from Nairobi area athletes based in Ngong and Eldoret where they train.
“Only top two finishers in each category will clinch tickets to the national championships, set for Lobo Village in Eldoret on January 22, 2022,” AK Nairobi Branch chairman Barnaba Korir told Standard Sports.
“Four categories will be contested at the event and they include the men and women’s U20 and the men and women’s 10km contests in the senior categories,” Korir said.
Athletics Kenya Nairobi Branch Chairman and National Olympics Committee-Kenya Executive Member Barnaba Korir. PHOTO/ BARNABA KORIR. The National Olympic Committee-Kenya Executive Member believes Nairobi will produce a strong squad that will give other major institutions, including the Kenya Prisons, Kenya Defence Forces, and the Kenya Police Services, a run for their money at the nationals.
“I believe we will have a very competent team in the men and women’s U-20 slots.
“Nairobi has always produced some of the best athletes to represent this country internationally and they continue to do so well in major championships across the world,” said Korir who also doubles up as Athletics Kenya Youth Director.
Korir said Nairobi will show up in large numbers in Eldoret to cheer and encourage their athletes as the branch’s mission is to complete a podium sweep in the nationals.
The nationals will act as a dry run for the prestigious World Athletics Gold Tour, dubbed the Agnes Tirop World Cross Country Gold Tour, in honor of the 2015 World Cross Country women’s champion who was found murdered at her home in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet, late last year.
Former World U-20 women’s champion Edna Jebitok in a past global championship. PHOTO/ COURTESY The Gold Tour will be held at the Lobo Village next month.
Men’s 10000m and 5000m record holder Joshua Cheptegei, men’s Half Marathon champion Jacob Kiplimo, both of Uganda, and double World Cross Country champion Geoffrey Kamworor are among the world beaters who have confirmed participation for the Gold Tour.
“Despite the World Cross Country championships being postponed to 2023, there’s a lot of excitement in the discipline after Kenya was awarded the rights to host one of the legs of the World Athletics Cross Gold Tour series.
“We encourage our top athletes to take part in this event which is like the Kip Keino Classic.
“This race allows athletes to participate in major events which attract very good prize money awarded after points have been compiled at the end of the 14’leg circuit,” said Korir.
“Nairobi has always produced good athletes. We train and prepare them but unfortunately, we lose them to institutions like the Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Prisons, and the Kenya Police Service after they mature.” AK Nairobi Branch Chairman Barnaba Korir.
UTILITIES
Kenya Police Cross Country selected results
Women
1. Caroline Nyaga 35:52.44
2. Nelly Cheptoo 35:58.54
3. Janet Ruguru 36:04.43
Men
1. Rhonex Kipruto 30:28.57
2. Michael Kibet 30:28.81
3. Josephat Kiprotich 30:46.79
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SOYA Awards: Initiative founder Tergat hails local sporting fraternity for resilience as awards receives Sh4 million boost
SOYA founder Paul Tergat makes remarks during a past event. PHOTO/ SOYA AWARDS.
NAIROBI, Kenya- Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA)founder Paul Tergat has hailed the local sporting fraternity for being resilient during this tough Covid-19 period that has engulfed the globe.Tergat who also doubles as the National Olympic Committee-Kenya President has also thanked various County Governments for standing with the sporting sector especially the SOYA Awards whose 18th edition is set to go down at Bhukungu Stadium in Kakamega on January 25, 2022.
“This year, our awards gala reflects on the continued bravery of our sports men and women despite the global pandemic.
“As we go down to Kakamega County, SOYA is marching onto adulthood (18-years) with boldness and courage that better days are ahead for our sporting fraternity,” said Tergat.
Tergat was speaking in Nairobi on Thursday where the awards received a total of Sh4 million boost from the Lotto Foundation, National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and the Safaricom PLC. While commending the County governments for their positive responses and great reception when hosting the SOYA events, Tergat said: “I am particularly impressed and encouraged by the enthusiasm by counties to welcome SOYA such as Kakamega this year. “Kakamega is all where it begun. “We have previously been hosted by Nakuru and Mombasa counties. We are indeed grateful.
“The double Olympic marathon silver medalist thanked corporate sponsors who have supported the initiative over the years and continue to do so without hesitation.
“ Indeed, the journey to recognize and celebrate our sportsmen and women has bore fruits.
“We are now keener to nurture and grow talent from the grassroot level and ensure recognition of Kenya as a sporting nation remains part of who we are as a nation,” he explained.
Double World Deaf Athletics champion Simon Kibai who is in contention for the 2021 Sportsmen and Women Living with a Disability award. SOYA chairman, Chris Mbaisi, added that the exemplary performance in 2021 was an indicator by the sporting fraternity on the zeal to make a comeback and leave an indelible mark.
“There is indeed hope and enthusiasm in sports getting back to normalcy. As the panel of judges, we have seen the resilience and push our sportsmen and women displayed in 2021 and we encourage them to keep on keeping on as we journey on this road to recovery,” said Mbaisi.
The NSSF’s Public Relations and Communications Manager, Chris Khisa, noted that as a partner, they are happy to share a platform with distinguished sportsmen and women.
“We as NSSF encourage our sports icons to consider active saving of their earnings with the NSSF and receive very good returns from their savings,” explained Khisa.
Lotto Foundation CEO, Joan Mwaura expressed the foundation’s continued support to sports as it brings a great sense of patriotism and togetherness from the community level to the global scene.
“We believe that sports initiatives in all levels can positively impact communities both socially and economically.
“We are committed to supporting all sporting endeavors as away of encouraging our youth to pursue games as a viable and rewarding career option, “noted Mwaura.
Safaricom PLC on their part expressed their confidence in the initiative that is SOYA which fetes sportsmen and women.
Safaricom indicated that platforms like SOYA provide opportunities through which budding talents are identified, nurtured and feted.
Others who have come on board to support this seasons awards include Kenya Academy of Sports (KAS), CPF Financial Services, Kenya Pipeline and the New KCC.
“We are hopeful that once again we will see our stadiums, pitches and fields filled with sports fans and enthusiasts. “SOYA chairman Chris Mbaisi.
UTILITIESThe 2021 Sportsmen and Women Living with a Disability contenders:
Men
Simon Kibai Erick Sang Felix Kipruto
Women
Nancy Chelangat Hellen Wawira Asiya Sururu Berly Atieno. -
Victoria Commercial Bank Sinks Ksh 10m Into the East Africa Safari Classic Rally
Cheque presentation during partnership between Victoria Commercial Bank and the East Africa Safari Classic Rally in Nairobi on Thursday January 13, 2022. PHOTO/VICTORIA COMMERCIAL BANK NAIROBI, Kenya-The up-coming East African Safari Classic Rally beginning 10th February has received a major investment from Victoria Commercial Bank, committing to Ksh 10 million in sponsorship towards the rally as preparations finalize for the event.
“Victoria Commercial Bank PLC is proud to be the exclusive Financial Services sponsor to the world’s greatest rally, the East African Safari Classic Rally, which runs from 10th – 18th February 2022. We believe this sponsorship will go a long way in assisting organizers in planning, facilitation and ultimately spectator and driver enjoyment of this iconic international motor-sporting event.” said Dr. Yogesh Pattani, CEO of Victoria Commercial Bank PLC said.
Dr. Pattani added that motorsport has been a major spectacle for Kenyans across several generations and Victoria Commercial Bank is proud to promote the core values of sportsmanship, competitiveness and cultural exchange to help build a unified global community through the East African Classic Safari Rally.
The EASCR Event Director, Natasha Tundo, said that despite the turbulent period the world is experiencing due to the prolonged Covid-19 pandemic, the rally is fully prepared for a 9-day adrenaline-filled event. “We are proud to deliver this Classic Rally despite the challenges presented by the pandemic as it is an important landmark in marketing Kenya’s diversified culture and as a tourist destination. The EASCR commits that we will show global audiences the best of our country to worldwide audiences across TV, digital and audio platforms.” Ms Tundo explained.
East Africa Safari Classic Rally Manager Sinder Sudle makes a point during the par9tnership launch between his organization and the Victoria Commercial Bank in Nairobi on Thursday January 13, 2022. PHOTO/VICTORIA COMMERCIAL BANK The over 5,000km race which flags off in Naivasha, will traverse through 11 such diverse Kenyan Counties which include Nakuru, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia, Kajiado, Taita Taveta and finishes off in the idyllic Indian Ocean location of Watamu in Kilifi County. Besides local drivers, the rally has allured competitors from the United Kingdom, Russia, Poland, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, South Africa and the USA.
The historically huge interest has been increased by the successful 2021 WRC Safari Rally and the East African Safari Mini Classic Rally staged in Kenya last year.
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