Agnes Tirop crosses the finish line ahead of Irene Cheptai on June 23, 2017 during the Kenyan trials for the IAAF World Athletics Championships to be held in London in August. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23 – Kenya might just have the surprise factor as it prepares to defend its global title in August during the IAAF World Athletics Championships with several new faces picking qualification slots for the biennial event.

Two finals were held on Friday, the first of the two-day event most often christened as a ‘mini-world championship’ owing to the competitive nature.

Cyrus Rutto topped the day picking a ticket to London in the 5,000m in a tightly competitive race marred by tripping and falling in the final lap, an incident that saw third place finisher Geoffrey Koech disqualified.

In a sprint finish, Rutto who lamented being denied a chance into the Rio Olympics team outsprinted David Kiplagat at the home stretch, crossing the finish line in a time of 13:31.5.

The 20-year-old told Capital Sport he was motivated to make the team after the Rio miss where he was pushed aside despite finishing third in Eldoret.

“Last year, I qualified for the Olympic but I ended up not making the team over unclear reasons. This time, I was motivated to work hard and finish first and ensure I get the ticket. I am so pleased because it has been my dream to represent the country at such a big stage,” Rutto added.

Cyrus Rutto all smiles after winning the 5,000m race at the Kenyan trials for the IAAF World Athletics Championships to be held in London in August. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The entire group of close to 20 starters stuck together for most part of the 12-and-a-half laps but it was not until the final three that the wheat began to separate from the chaff.

At the bell, Kimutai who ended up disqualified and Alfred Ng’eno stuck out a shoulder ahead of the rest and began to open up, but heading into the first bend, a huge commotion occurred with three athletes in the leading pack falling off pace.

Rutto stuck out at the home stretch and kicked home despite a surge from Kiplagat who came in second with a time of 13:31.7.

Josephat Kiprono who finished fourth might sneak into the team courtesy of Koech’s disqualification.

Rutto and Kiplagat have now put within their ambitions to sharpen their spikes with the neck of reigning World and Olympic champion Mo Farah top on their agenda.

“I ran alongside Farah in a Diamond League race last year and he beat me. This time, I want to go back up against him and revenge for that loss. It will be tough with the Ethiopians also there, but we will go and do our best,” Rutto noted.

And noting that he trains in the elite group that includes reigning Olympic champion and anchored by celebrated long distance athletics coach Patrick Sang, Rutto is more than confident of having the best of preparations ahead of the trip to London.

-Tirop, Jeptai pick 10k tickets- 

Agnes Tirop leads a pack of athletes on June 23, 2017 during the Kenyan trials for the IAAF World Athletics Championships to be held in London in August. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Meanwhile, the women’s 10,000m race will see two World Cross Country champions try to fill the massive shoes left by pocket-rocket Vivian Cheruiyot who has shifted to road running.

Reigning champion Irene Cheptai who blitzed the field to win in Kampala on March 26 and her predecessor Agnes Tirop all booked slots in the 10,000m as so did reigning African 10,000m champion Alice Aprot.

Training partners Cheptai and Tirop ran side by side in the race that attracted eight athletes before Tirop bolted away in the final 50m to win in a personal best time of 31:56.0.

Aprot had led through a huge chunk of the race but was shaken away by the two cross country queens with three laps left.

“This is the first time that I am going to represent Kenya on the track as a senior and I am really excited. Looking that I came out first in a very competitive field, I am proud of my performance today. Hopefully, going into London, I get a medal,” the soft spoken 21-year old said.

She has won bronze twice at World Junior level in the 5,000m in 2012 and 2014.

Cheptai who was seventh during the Beijing World Championships in 2015 will have a chance of proving her worth on the track having won the cross country title in Kampala.

USA based athlete Betsy Saina did not appear for the trials as she is ruled out with injury.

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World Junior Champion Kipyegon Bett (far right) eases through to win the 800m race during the Kenyan trials for the World Athletics Championship at the Nyayo National Stadium on June 23, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23 – As his role model and icon David Rudisha sat quietly up the Nyayo Stadium stands watching the day’s proceedings from a vantage point, World Junior 800m champion Kipyegon Bett was salivating at his crown ahead of August’s IAAF World Athletics Championships.

Bett who has already beaten Rudisha once this year, targets another victory over the reigning World Champion and record holder having qualified for the finals of the Kenyan trials on Friday afternoon with an easy win in his semi-final.

The 19-year old effortlessly crossed the finish line in a time of 1:45.9 ahead of erstwhile unheralded Michael Saruni and Job Kinyor who finished second and third respectively to pick the automatic qualification slots.

“I feel I am in very good shape and my big target is the World Championships. It feels great to come from the juniors and then progress so smoothly. Ahead of the final tomorrow, my only target is to get the London ticket,” Bett told Capital Sport, sweat still trickling but not enough to wipe the glee off his face.

“I know Rudisha is a very experienced athlete who has won many races in the world, but I am not intimidated. I want to take after him and come August, I would wish to beat him to the title if I get the ticket on Saturday,” Bett noted.

Fergusson Rotich shows his ecstacy after winning the 800m semi-final race during the Kenyan trials for the World AThletics Championship at the Nyayo National Stadium on June 23, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

As the defending champion, Rudisha has a direct ticket to London and will be joined by three others who will cross the finish line in that order on Saturday.

In his quest for a ticket into team Kenya, Bett will have to endure tough competition from two-time Diamond race winner Ferguson Rotich who won the second semi-final and is eager to improve his fourth place finish from Beijing two years ago.

Speaking after winning in a time of 1:45.2, Rotich also said he feels is body is getting into shape despite finishing third and 10^th in the two Diamond League races he has run this year in Shanghai and Rome respectively.

From the second semi final, Emmanuel Korir as well as another former World Junior and Youth Champion Alfred Kipketer picked the next two qualifying slots. Courtesy of clocking fast times, Jackson Kivuva and Bernard Kipyego also went through to the final.

In the 3,000m steeplechase, Olympic champion Conseslus Kipruto and 2014 African Champion Jairus Birech won their respective semi-finals and lead the hunt into Saturday’s final.

Slow down sir! Conseslus Kiprut gestures to Benjamin Kigen during the Kenyan trials for the World Athletics Championship at the Nyayo National Stadium on June 23, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Kipruto who beat three-time World Champion Ezekiel Kemboi to the Olympic title last year will be hoping for a repeat in London and the ease at which he won his semi at Nyayo Stadium spoke volumes of a man confident in his abilities.

The silver medalist from the last championship in Beijing crossed the line in 8:36.0 after coming from behind, stretching his hand towards second placed Benjamin Kigen signaling him to slow down as he is the ‘king of the race’.

Birech topped the second semi which was a bit faster as it had a heavier look, finishing in 8:34.7 ahead of 2007 World and 2008 Olympic champion Brimin Kipruto who finished second in 8:35.1.

Reigning World Junior Champion Amos Kirui came in third in a time of 8:35.4 as he plays on the shadows of the seniors, hoping to take the mantle when they call it a day.

-Sawe High Jump dream too high-

Mathew Sawe clears the barrier in the High Jump during the Kenyan trials for the World AThletics Championship at the Nyayo National Stadium on June 23, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

At the same time, Mathew Sawe’s dream of becoming the first ever Kenyan high jumper at a world event came to a screeching halt after failing to clear the required 2:30m, his best jump being at 2:20.

Sawe began at 2.10 then 2.15, easily clearing the distances. His first attempt at 2.20 was futile but cleared it on the second bite of the cherry. He next tried 2.26 but couldn’t clear the distance 1cm higher than his personal best.

Also, the finals for the short races which had been set for early morning were shelved to Saturday owing to the absence of the electronic timers which are mandatory according to IAAF rules for times to be certified.

All focus will be on national record holder Mark Otieno who will be chasing a time of 10.12, two fractions of a second faster than the record he set during the national championships last month.

The post Bett salivates at Rudisha crown as he sails to 800m final appeared first on Capital Sports.

Philemon Mbaaru crossing the finish line for his fifth Safaricom Lewa Marathon title.PHOTO/Kamakya

ISIOLO, Kenya, June 24 – Charging through Lewa’s undulating tough course, 2014 Casablanca winner Philemon Mbaaru prevailed the punishing conditions to successfully retain the men’s Safaricom Marathon title at the 18th edition run at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy on Saturday.

The women’s race went to Iten based Margaret Pepesi who was using the race to gauge his long run pace as she eyes competing in a race she is yet to decide in September.

The Lewa Marathon course clearly loves Mbaaru, who won his fifth event at the annual event, only missing the 2015 kedition through injury.

The 36-year-old Mbaaru outdid his biggest challenger in the race Daniel Mbogo to stop the timer in 2:22:18 and pocket Sh150, 000 Prize Money and a mobile phone.

Running under scorching sun in the event categorised as one of the toughest marathons in the world where wild animals are privileged to be among the spectators, Mbaaru had Mbogo to thank for pace setting for him all the way until the 38km.

However, despite mastering the course, Mbaaru faced stiff competition this year, after having to sweat to catch up with the leading team after delaying to get off at the startline.

Participants tackling the Lewa Marathon course.PHOTO/Kamakya

Battling the tough terrain that had six water stops and five misting stations to cool the heat, Mbaaru made the turning point with three kilometres to the finish line, out kicking Mbogo and go all the way to cut the tape under warm reception of over 1000 spectators who came for the event.

Experience helped Mbaaru to overtake Mbogowho was out of gas to settle for second place in 2:22:53 while John Mureithi completed the podium in 2:25:42.

Delighted Mbaaru, who finished fifth at this year’s Warszawa Marathon in Poland, called on the organisers to increase the Full Marathon Prize Money since they same Sh150, 000 is also awarded to the Half Marathon winners.

“Mbogo played a big part in my winning today because he pushed it hard .The leading pack had opened a big gap after the first 10km and following Mbogo helped me catch up with them. The race was not easy but the weather was friendly,” Mbaaru, a father of three children said.

“I had trained on a rough road so that I can to get used to the Lewa course. I thank God for the win. I finished eighth at the Kilimanjaro marathon in February to test my injury.”

-Pepesa rule women-

Pepesa crossing the finish line to win the women’s race.PHOTO/Kamakya

In the women’s race, Pepesi stunned pre-race favourite and defending champion Fridah Lodepa, who coming to the race had won four consecutive titles.

Pepesi, who faced no competition, clocked 2:38:48 way ahead of Naomi Njeri Nduta who crossed the line in 2:49:29 while Lodepa finished a disappointing third in 2:54:53.

Pepesi, running in Lewa for the first time, had the advantage of his husband Kenneth Kiplagat Tarus who set the pace for her until the 35km mark to see her wife go all the way to the finish line alone.

She made the move after 21Km and ran all the way along the men to grab the title and win Sh150,000 and a mobile phone, saying she will use the money to pay for her daughter’s school fees.

“The race was good though the challenges were the hills that were very stiff. I had trained well for this race and that why I didn’t find any competition. We started the race well and saw many people infront of me, thinking they were the 42km leading pack so I chased them and realised they were the leading team of the 21Km,” the 27-year-old mother of one daughter stated after the race.

His husband who is also his coach was full of praise to her wife and dedicated the win to their seven year old daughter Michele Chebet.

“I help her in training so that she can have a good time. I dropped after 35Km but I was aware nobody could catch him. We are preparing for the September race,’ Tarus, 29, said.

Former Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph flaging off the race.PHOTO/Kamakya

Philemon Kiprono dominated the men’s Half Marathon in 1:06:00 ahead of Vincent Raimoi (1:06:12) as Titus Karimi came third in1:06:35.

The women’s 21km race went to Betty Karambu who redeemed herself after failing to earn a ticket for the Kenya IAAF London World Championships Trials where she finished fifth in the 10,000m

Karambu clocked1:14:25 ahead of Lucy Karimi (1:15:41) while Pauline Wangui was third in 1:17:18.

Full Results

41km men

1.Philemon Mbaaru 2:22:18

2.Daniel Mbogo 2:22:53

3.John Mureithi 2:25:42

4.Samuel Njuguna 2:25:43

5 Titus Kurgat 2:26:38

6 Charles Rotich 2:29:54

7. Joseph Gitau 2:30:36

8 philip Kigen 2:30:55

9. Paul Theuri 2:33:23
10. Samson Legojine 2:35:20

Women

1 Margret Pepesi Lepekana 2:38:48

2.Naomi Njeri Nduta 2:49:29

3. Fridah Lodepa 2:54:53
4. Jane Mbogo 2:55:49

5 Risper Chelagat 2:59:48

6.Mary Mwaniki 3:11.39

The post Mbaaru crowned the king of Lewa Marathon with fifth title appeared first on Capital Sports.

Part of the action from the Kenya v Uganda Elgon Cup match at the RFUEA Ground on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/KRU

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 24 –  A penalty try three minutes from time saved Kenya from a loss at home, pushing to a 33-33 draw with the Uganda Rugby Cranes to retain the Elgon Cup title with a 56-51 aggregate win.

The Simbas had won the first leg 23-18 in Kampala a fortnight ago and that result proved to be the masterstroke, carrying them through to a 56-51 score on aggregate, though it spelt a poor start to their Rugby Africa Gold Cup campaign.

The Ugandans, powered by the evergreen Philip Wokarach had started the return leg tie on a high, taking an early 10-0 lead that caught Jerome Paarwater’s charges by surprise.

Wokarach opened up the day booting a penalty for a 3-0 lead before Mathias Ochwo touched down for an 8-0 score for the men from the Nile. Wokarach added in the extras as the Cranes sat up on a 10-0 gap between them and their hosts.

Stunned, Kenya picked up the pieces and took the game to Uganda and it was that man Darwin Mukidza who got Kenya into the party. The team captain who scored two crucial late penalties in Kampala surfaced with another three points from distance.

Kenya got closer to the Ugandans with Jacob Ojee touching down for the hosts’ first try of the match after picking up space from the scrum with David Ambunya offloading to Ojee. Mukidza’s conversion was wide as Kenya narrowed the gap to two points.

The hosts picked up decent tempo into the match and they jumped into the lead with Moses Amusala dotting down the second try of the game and Mukidza failed to add in the extras, Kenya going 13-10 up.

Wokarach who plays his club rugby with Kenya Cup finalists Kabras Sugar popped up once again with another penalty, sending the game to a 13-13 tie.

Mukidza then made amends for his two conversion misses, successfully kicking a penalty between the sticks, his second of the game as Kenya went into the break 16-13 up.

Kenya Captain Darwin Mukidza strikes home a penalty during the Elgon Cup match against Uganda at the RFUEA Ground on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/KRU

The second half saw the visitors start stronger and they ran in a try through Brian Asaba with Wokarach converting as the lead exchanged hands once again, Uganda going 20-16 up.

Kenya made an immediate response as Ojee got his second try of the evening, landing the ball on the left despite a late attempt at tackling from the Uganda defense. Mukidza got the ball out wide to Ojee who stepped up into the try box.

The skipper added in the extras as Kenya once again went up, 23-20.

Paarwater made a change, bringing in KCB skipper Curtis Lilako for Dennis Karani, a bulk for bulk change. Simon Muniafu also went off with injury after being knocked down as he raced at the Ugandan backline and was replaced by George Nyambua.

Uganda almost caught Kenya on the counter, but they were stopped right on their tracks after the referee ruled the final pass as a forward.

The hosts and title holders kept on the command of the game with Mukidza kicking home another successful penalty, the gap now going to 26-20.

But the danger man Wokarach wasn’t just about done as he took his side back level with two successful penalties to tie the game at 26-26.

The Rugby Cranes then took a seven point lead with eight minutes to play after Michael Okorach dotted down from a quick interchange of passes, Wokarach converting successfully.

Kenya pushed and were rewarded for the hunger, earning a penalty try from a scrum after Joshua Chisanga was fouled.

With the clock ticking and Uganda also looking to snatch the win on Kenyan soil, the hosts won the ball and at the buzzer kicked out to take in the draw and retain the trophy.

The Simbas now shift their attention to back to back home ties against Senegal and Tunisia from July 8.

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The street leading to the local Kinesi Stadium was unveiled by the mayor Boniface Jacob alongside Wanyama. PHOTO/Ndondo Cup (Twitter)

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 24 – Harambee Stars captain and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Victor Wanyama has had a street in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania named after him after attending the local Ndondo Cup in Ubungo on Saturday.

The street leading to the local Kinesi Stadium was unveiled by the mayor Boniface Jacob alongside Wanyama much to the delight of local lads who had thronged the stadium prior to the Saturday matches.

Victor Wanyama with the Ubungo mayor after being certifdied. PHOTO/Ndondo Cup (Twitter)

The Spurs midfielder has been on a week-long holiday in Tanzania as he continues to take a much deserving rest after a tough and hugely successful debut season with the North London club.

It is huge respect for Wanyama who is now regarded as one of the best football imports from the East African region.

The honor of having a street named after him comes just less than 24 hours after he won the most influential sportsman award during the annual Kenya Social Media Awards (SOMA).

Wanyama beat off a healthy field of competitors that included Olympic champions Eliud Kipchoge and David Rudisha volleyballer Jane Wacu and Kenya Simbas star Biko Adema.

Victor Wanyama makes way into the Kinesi Stadium much to the delight of fans. PHOTO/Ndondo Cup (Twitter)

Mamadou Sakho and newly-wed Morgan Schneiderlin who is Wanyama’s former teammate at Southampton were the other English Premier League stars who have been on holiday in Tanzania this week.

Schneiderlin is expected back in Tanzania when Everton plays a pre-season friendly match against Gor Mahia on July 13 at the National Stadium in Dar.

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AFC Leopards defender Jopshua Mawira takes on a Dero FC opponent during a round of 32 GOtv Shield match at the Moi Stadium in Kisumu on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Courtesy

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 24 – AFC Leopards, the 2013 GOtv Shield champions were on some party mood of sorts, slapping away Division Two side Dero FC 15-1 at the Moi Stadium in Kisumu in the round of 32 of this year’s tournament on Saturday.

Ingwe who have not won in eight consecutive domestic features gave themselves a huge shot of confidence with youngster Vincent Oburu hitting five, midfielder Whyvonne Isuza four, winger Marcelus Ingotsi two and there was as much time as goalkeeper Ian Otieno also getting into the party.

It was a day that didn’t provide shocks with all the big guns going through. Bandari were 3-1 winners over Uweza in Machakos, Western Stima beat Machakos United 4-1, Sony Sugar ran out 3-0 winners over Timsales in Nakuru while Kariobangi Sharks edged out Bungoma Superstars 3-2.

But it was AFC’s result that got all tongues wagging especially coming at a time when the club is struggling to get themselves back on track.

Ingotsi opened up the floodgates with a second minute goal, a simple tap in from a Samwel Ndung’u cross. Mudde Musa then made it 2-0 scoring after another simple build up.

Edgar Owino gave the Siaya-based club a huge boost halving the deficit, but their slim hopes of mounting a comeback and challenging the 13-time Kenyan Premier League champions came tumbling down like a pack of cards.

Isuza, Oburu and Ingotsi scored in quick succession as Ingwe went to the break with a healthy 5-1 lead. Ingwe continued their rout in the second period scoring 10.

Former Mathare United man Isuza struck thrice, Oburu four times while Jackson Juma who had come on as a substitute contrinuted to the bounty harvest. Defender Robinson Kamura was not left out either and keeper Ottieno capped off the day with a 91^st minute penalty.

In Machakos, 2015 champions Bandari were off to a flier, hitting Uweza 3-1. Baron Oketch broke his goal drought opening the goal fest for the Mombasa based side with an early penalty.

The goal is a morale boosting feat for Oketch who saw his loan stint at Ulinzi clouded with lack of playing time and hence sought the move to Mombasa. Boniface Wambani stretched the lead to 2-0 in the 10^th minute.

Bandari saw their lead sliced to half on the half hour mark when Wycliffe Odeho scored from the penalty spot. Hamisi Mwinyi scored in stoppage time as Bandari consolidated the win and progress to the round of 16.

The post Ingwe hit Dero 15 as big guns progress in GOtv Shield appeared first on Capital Sports.

Geoffrey Kamworor celebrates after winning the 10,000m race at the Kenyan trials at the Nyayo Stadium on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Nairobi, Kenya, Jun 24 – Two time World Cross Country and World Half Marathon Champion Geoffrey Kamworor led a list of usual suspects making it into the 10,000m team for the August IAAF World Championships in London as the Kenyan trials concluded on Saturday evening.

Kamworor led Bedan Karoki and Paul Tanui across the line to pick the three automatic slots on a day Athletics Kenya named a provisional list of 46 athletes; 20 female and 26 male to defend the overall team crown won in Beijing two years ago.

The common enemy for the three men is one Briton, reigning champion Mo Farah.

“He has beaten us over time in the same race using the same tactic. This time, we will go there with a different approach and I am confident that we will beat him. We will sit down with the coaches and make out a very good plan on how we will win that elusive gold medal for Kenya,” Kamworor said just after winning the race at Nyayo Stadium.

The same trio tried to challenge Farah in Beijing but was unable finishing second, third and fourth with Kamworor topping the bill with a silver while Tanui took bronze and Karoki finished outside the medal bracket.

“If there is a time we will beat Farah, then it is this time. We are all in shape and we are used to running together. We have to work on a good team plan and I am confident that gold is coming home,” a determined Karoki told Capital Sport.

Geoffrey Kamworor leads the pack at the Kenyan trials at the Nyayo Stadium on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

“On the road we usually beat him (Farah) easily because we have so much endurance. The only thing that gives him advantage on track is his finishing kick. We are going to work on our speed and ensure we perfect,” Karoki further stated.

It was a competitive race under the mid-morning sun at Nyayo, but at the end of the day, the three showed their supremacy.

They stuck well within the leading pack throughout until it was down to five laps when the wheat was separated from the chaff. Kamworor all this time tucked in between the athletes, smiling and giving a thumbs up when someone screamed his name from the stands.

They were pulling in some teamwork with Karoki, signaling each other when it was time to pull in some kick of pace.

Mathew Kimeli and Mathew Kisorio dropped out of the leading six with three laps to go, the trio leading the pack while World Cross Country silver medalist Leonard Barsoton sat at the back.

At the bell it was the smiling Kamworor who pulled the pace, followed swiftly by Karoki with Tanui now trailing as the two blazed the home stretch. With 100m to go, Kamworor showed some good finishing kick, crossing the finish line in 27:35.9

Karoki followed second in 27:40.3 while Tanui was third in 27:42.6.

-Kwemoi dazzles in 1500m-

ROnald Kwemoi crosses the finish line ahead of Timothy Cheruiyot during the Kenyan trials at the Nyayo Stadium on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In the 1500m, Ronald Kwemoi ran the second fastest time this year, winning the 1500m race in a dazzling time of 3:30.89 while World leader Timothy Cheruiyot came in second. The Kenyan team to London will have four athletes with Asbel Kiprop, the defending champion earning a wild card.

Kiprop took up the pacing duties in the final on Saturday, helping his mates put in some good time pulling up at the front of the pack in the first two laps before fading away and ultimately jogging off the track as he let the youngsters battle for the ticket.

Elijah Manang’oi and Cheruiyot who had been at the front of the pack for most of the race lost out to Kwemoi who dug deep into his energy reserves in the final 50 metres to win the race and ensure he bags a ticket to London.

Cheruoiyot came in second in 3:31.05 with Manang’oi squeezing in at third in 3:32.03 just managing to wheel away from fourth placed Justus Soget whose weak finishing kick saw him lose out.

Though he made the qualifying time, Soget was not drafted into the team as only the first three across the line were picked.

In the corresponding women’s race, Olympic champion Faith Chepng’etich easily won the race in 4:05.7 ahead of 2006 World Junior silver medalist Winny Chebet who timed 4:06.8. Third placed Sella Jepleting missed out on the4:07.50 qualifying time.

-US based Korir stuns in 800m-

Emmanuel Korir lifts his hands in celebration after winning the 800m race during the Kenyan trials at the Nyayo Stadium on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In the 800m race, United States based student Emmanuel Korir toppled stiff competition in his first ever appearance at the national trials stopping the clock in 1:43.86.

Just two show how much talent Kenya has in the race, only one of the eight starters in the race, Alfred Kipketer failed to meet the qualifying time with seven athletes all running well within the required 1:45.90.

With World Junior champion and Kenya’s upcoming sensation in the two-lap race Kipyegon Bett leading into the final lap, Korir pulled out from the rear with less than 50metres to go, kicking in some suicidal pace to outwit Bett.

Korir stopped the timers at 1:43.86 with Bett coming in second at 1:44.04 and Michael Saruni finishing third at 1:44.61.

Ferguson Rotich was pushed to fourth but he was still named in the team by virtue of winning the Diamond Trophy last season. AL named five athletes in the race with defending champion David Rudisha having a wild card.

It is left to be seen whether all the five will squeeze into the team or one will be dropped.

-Yego throws season’s best-  

World javelin champion Julius Yego screams in delight after throwing a season’s best of 87.97m during the Kenyan trials at the Nyayo Stadium on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Julius Yego, already assured of a slot in the team as defending champion threw a season best of 87.97 marking his best throw locally.

The Olympic silver medalist who has been struggling for form this season was a darling of the Nyayo Stadium crowd which chanted hisname heavily every time he picked the javelin. When he thrust well above the 85m mark, the entire stadium roared in praise as so did his competitors on the field.

“I felt very encouraged every time the fans rose up to chant my name and I only had to reward them with a good performance. It feels really great to throw such kind of a distance at home and for the fans who have only been watching me on TV, this is a gift to them,” a pleased Yego said.

He will be joined on the list for field events by triple jumper Elijah Metei who has made it into the World Championships for the first time.

-Koech misses on Hurdles, Otieno gets 200m card-

Harun Koech spreads his arms in celebration after winning the 400m Hurdles race during the Kenyan trials at the Nyayo Stadium on June 24, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In the sprints, none of the eight athletes in the 400m hurdles made the qualification time and only World Champion Nicholas Bett was named in the final team by virtue of his wild card.

His younger brother Harun Koech failed to get the required time of 49.35 having won the race in 49.98. However, he expects to run in Algiers and one more Diamond League race to try and get the time.

Olympic silver medalist and African champion Boniface Mucheru did not race in the trials as he is recovering from injury but if he manages to recover and get the qualifying time in one of the Diamond League races, then he will be considered.

At the same time, national 100m and 200m champion and record holder Mark Otieno narrowly missed out on his bid to double at the worlds, but he still earned a ticket to London for the 2008.

Otieno fell out a few microseconds of the 10.12 qualifying time, clocking 10.36 to win the Saturday morning race ahead of Peter Mwai who timed 10.45.

In the 200m race, despite finishing second in 21.04, Otieno progressed by virtue of having attained the qualification time of 20.44, having run 20.14 during the national championships two weeks ago.

Team Kenya for London

Women:

400m –Maxmilla Imali, 800m- Margaret Nyairera, Eunice Sum, Emily Cherotich, 1500m – Faith Chepng’etich, Winny Chebet, 5,000m – Hellen Obiri, Margaret Chelimo. 10,000m – Agnes Tirop, Irene Cheptai, Alice Aprot, 20km walk – Grace Wanjiru, Marathon- Edna Kiplagat, Helah Kiprop, Phlomena Cheyech.

Men:

200m- Mark Otieno, 400m- Raymond Kibet, Collins Omae, 400m Hurdles- Nicholas Bett, 800m- David Rudisha, Emmanuel Korir, Kipyegon Bett, Michael Saruni, Ferguson Rotich, 1500m- Ronald Kwemoi, Timothy Cheruiyot, Elijah Manang’oi, Asbel Kiprop, 3,000m steeplechase- Conseslus Kipruto, Brimin Kipruto, Jairus Birech, Ezekiel Kemboi, 5,000m –Cyrus Rutto, James Kiplagat, 10,000m- Geoffrey Kamworor, Bedan Karoki, Paul Tanui, Walk- Samuel Gathimba, Samuel Wachira, Javelin- Julius Yego, Triple jump- Elijah Metei.

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Harambee Stars and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Victor Wanyama has a chat with kids from teh Thunder Football Academy in Nairobi’s Kawangware estate on June 25, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 – Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Victor Wanyama spent his 26th birthday on Sunday with children from the Thunder Football Academy in Kawangware, just a few hours after arriving in the country from a short holiday in Tanzania.

The Harambee Stars skipper chose to celebrate his special day imparting knowledge and his experience to the kids most of who come from less privileged backgrounds, almost a similar pattern to one he followed before becoming a household name in the English Premier League.

“These are the moments I want to be remembered for; sharing my birthday with these kids. They are the future of football so it’s great sometimes to give back.”

“Also, looking at their background, it is very important for someone to come, share with the their story and show them they can make it despite where they come from,” Wanyama told Capital Sport on the sidelines of his fun-filled activity with the kids.

Harambee Stars and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Victor Wanyama enjoys a kick about with upcoming footballers at Thunder Football Academy in Nairobi’s Kawangware estate on June 25, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

It turned out to be a dream come true for the young kids from the academy, with the closest they have come to an EPL star being watching them on television.

“I can’t even believe it! I am so happy having him come here really means a lot to us. He has motivated us a lot and given us advice, telling us that with discipline and hard work you can make it to the big stages,” Caleb Balozi, the captain of the Under-15s said.

Wanyama took turns to play with each of the different age group teams, starting off with the Under-6, Under-11, Under-15 and Under-17s as well as the girls’ team.

It was a thrill for the youngsters to play alongside the national icon and they also got a chance to ask him questions, some funny, some serious.

When asked how many goals he has scored in the EPL, Wanyama shot back by asking which of those he has scored they remember.

Harambee Stars and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Victor Wanyama enjoys a kick about with upcoming footballers at Thunder Football Academy in Nairobi’s Kawangware estate on June 25, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

“Siwezi sahau ile ulifunga Man U bana. Maze sikuskia poa. Team yangu jo! (I can’t forget that one you scored against Manchester United. I didn’t feel good. That’s my team),” one of the kids from the Under-15s said, much to the delight of his teammates and Wanyama himself.

The midfielder gave the players advice on how to make it as a pro-footballer while sharing his journey playing for Country Bus FC in Muthurwa before heading out to the manicured lawns of Europe.

“Leo unacheza kwa hii mchanga iko hapa, but uki focus, u work hard and ukuwe disciplined, siku moja utacheza kwa viwanja poa. Kila kitu inawezekana. Hakuna kitu hard hii dunia. (Today you might be playing on this rough pitch, but if you focus, work hard and be disciplined, one day you will play in the best fields in the world. There is nothing impossible in this world),” Wanyama encouraged the kids.

Thunder Academy director Raad Swais could not hide his excitement at having Wanyama mingle freely and sharing his experience with the kids.

One of the girls at Thunder football Academy shows off her skill as Harambee Stars and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Victor Wanyama watches on during a visit of the Kawangware based Academy on June 25, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

“Most of these kids come from very poor background. You could see it in their eyes today that they are excited. For their own growth and self belief, it is very important that some of these big players who have made it come down here and share some time with them,” Swais noted.

Wanyama was accompanied by most of his family members including elder brother MacDonald Mariga, now playing his football in Italy.

The post Wanyama thrills Kawangware kids on 26th birthday appeared first on Capital Sports.

Zarika and Ashley during the fight in 2016. The re-match is scheduled for June 30,2017

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 – Gor Mahia captain Musa Mohammed, brother to boxer Fatuma Zarika has tipped her to successfully defend the World Boxing Commission Super Bantamweight Title when she takes on Jamaica’s Alicia Ashley on June 30 in Dallas, Texas.

With only five days remaining before the highly anticipated bout, Zarika has upped her preparations in Dallas and miles away back at home, Mohammed is one of those constantly keeping her in his Dua ahead of the bout.

“I am very confident that Fatma will win. She is a hard worker and believes in herself so much. I know she is doing her best there in training and Inshaalah, the win is hers. I am wishing her all the best and I know she is going to make us proud,” Mohammed said.

He revealed their long journey towards both making it in their respective disciplines, Mohammed on the football pitch and Zarika on the boxing ring.

“We are like teammates. We encourage each other every day and one thing most people don’t know is that she is the one who encouraged me to get into sports. She inspired me a lot especially when I was still in school,” the Harambee Stars defender further commented.

The Gor skipper also disclosed he almost started a career in boxing having been used to accompany his sister to the gym, but finally cut out his own path in football.

The bout on Friday night will be a repeat of last year’s clash between the pair where Zarika dethroned the Jamaican via a split decision at the Dort Federal Event Center in Flint in Michigan, the US and became the first Kenyan pugilist to claim the prestigious title.

The mandatory rematch was due for April 29 this year in Nairobi but never happened after Elbaum failed to pay Zarika her purse of Sh350,000 for the title victory last year.

Zarika, sponsored for the bout by betting firm SportPesa has been training in Dallas for seven weeks now and is confident she has gathered enough to floor the Jamaican for the second time.

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A man walks away with the Victor Wanyama signage from the road leading to Kinesi Stadium

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 – Just a day after a street in the Tanzanian capital Dar es Salaam was named after Harambee Stars skipper Victor Wanyama, the signage was on Sunday vandalized and plucked off with a section of the residents saying the law was not followed.

The street leading to the local Kinesi Stadium was renamed Victor Wanyama Streetand unveiled by the mayor Boniface Jacob alongside Wanyama much to the delight of local lads who had thronged the stadium.

“Street names are recommended by committees who then present the suggestion to sittings of the Ward Development Committee. If the WDC approve the name is forwarded to the Committee of Finance, Councilors’ Committee, Dar es Salaam City Council, Regional Consultative Committee and the office of the regional head then published in a gazette notice,” the Ubungo Municipality said in a statement.

But despite the incident, Wanyama could not hide his joy at the reception he received in Tanzania.

“First of all, I was very happy with how I was received there and having a street named after me was a surprise. It is a lot of honor and respect especially with the way they treated me over there,” Wanyama told Capital Sport on Sunday.

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Kenyan athlete Conseslus Kipruto celebrates after winning the men’s 3000 steeplechase race during the Rome’s Diamond League athletics competition on June 8, 2017 at the Olympic Stadium in Rome © AFP/File / ALBERTO PIZZOLI

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 24 – Kenya’s Olympic 3,000 metres steeplechase champion Conseslus Kipruto feels victory at this year’s world championships in London would cement his place one of the distance greats.

The 22-year-old, twice gold medallist in 2013 in Moscow and in Beijing in 2015, said he’s ready to step up the ladder as the next dominant after compatriot and four-time world champion Ezekiel Kemboi.

“This time I want to change the way I have been running at the world championships,” said Kipruto, after his victory at the Kenyan national trials at the Nyayo National stadium on Saturday.

“Having won the Olympics, I now have the course. I want to be is a world champion and the take the mantle from Kemboi.”

Kipruto will however have the 2007 world champion Brimin Kipruto to contend with in London after the resurgent 2008 Olympic champion fought his way to qualify for his seventh career championship in London with a second-place finish.

Two-time Diamond League winner Jairus Kipchoge Birech finished third in 8:20.01 to complete the three-man line-up.

American National Collegiate 800-metre champion Emmanuel Korir upset a strong field to win his first Kenyan title in an impressive time of 1:43.86.

Korir finished well clear of the Shanghai Diamond League winner Kipyegon Bett and fellow US-based Michael Saruni, who took second and third place respectively in 1:44.04 and 1:44.61.

National champion Ferguson Rotich was relegated into fourth, but was included in the world championship squad by virtue of being the 2016 Diamond League champion.

Reigning 800m champion David Rudisha also earned the wild card, despite not taking part in the two-day championship.

The women’s 800m was won by Olympic bronze medallist Margaret Nyairera in her fourth personal best time of the season in 1:59.68.

Eunice Sum, the African and Commonwealth 800m champion was a distant second in 2:00.03 with Emily Cherotich (2:00.08) third.

There was no surprise in the men’s 10000m, as national champion Geoffrey Kamworor lead Bedan Karoki and Paul Tanui in a repeat of the team that represented Kenya in the Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Kamworor, the two-time world cross country and world half-marathon champion said the trio will work as a team to topple Britain’s two-time world 10000m champion, Mo Farah in London.

“We need to change the technique and with enough training between now and August there is no doubt about beating Farah. It is high time we won back the 10000m world title. That time is now,” said Kamworor.

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Kenya Simbas’ Davis Chenge with teammates in training. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 26 – Having been held to a 33-33 draw by Uganda in a Rugby Africa Gold Cup cum Elgon Cup tie on Saturday at the RFUEA Ground in Nairobi, the Kenya 15s team lost one rating point and have dropped one place to 26th in the latest World Rugby standings.

The Simbas started off the year with a 24^th spot placing courtesy of last year’s twin wins over Hong Kong in a test match in Nairobi, but a loss at home to Germany and the draw with Uganda on Saturday now sees them drop further.

Uganda have now moved four places up to 40^th.

Jerome Paarwater’s men will hope for better tidings when they get into match day two and three of the Gold Cup from July 8 with home ties against Tunisia and Senegal before playing away to Zimbabwe and Namibia in the final two weeks of the month.

While Zimbabwe moved up one spot to 35^th courtesy of their win over Senegal in the Gold Cup, Namibia remained perched at 21^st while Senegal moved down six places to 45^th.

Meanwhile, South Africa remains the best placed African team having moved up to fifth on the rankings with the weekend 35-12 win over France handing them a 3-0 whitewash over Le Bleus in the series test match.

Having dropped to an all-time low of seventh following a disappointing set of November results, Allister Coetzee’s side are now 3.37 rating points better off than they were at the start of the month – and only half a point away from reclaiming a place in the top four.

Meanwhile, Simbas head coach Paarwater was not impressed with the team’s performance over the weekend and will now hope for an improvement when they head to a busy calendar in July.

“That result is testament that we need overall improvement. We have to improve on our defensive shape and scrums in the coming matches,” the tactician said.

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President Uhuru Kenyatta walks into a past function alongside Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 26 – In its re-election manifesto launched on Monday evening, the Jubilee government has downscaled the promise of constructing five new stadia given in 2013 to three.

In their manifesto running up to their election in 2013, President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government promised five new stadia in Nairobi, Eldoret, Mombasa, Nakuru and Garissa but four years down the line, none has been realised.

They have now promised to pull their efforts toward three new ones in Nairobi, Mombasa and Eldoret if the electorate gives them a new five year-term in the elections slated for August 8.

The lack of modern sporting facilities has been a thorn in Kenya’s flesh.

Kenya’s winning bid to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) hangs in the balance with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unimpressed by the facilities currently in place.

This year, Kenyan Premier League and National Super League teams have been hit hard by the unavailability of Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia due to refurbishment with the few remaining facilities being subjected to overuse.

Among the achievements the government has noted down include the refurbishment of the Mombasa, Kisumu and Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret but among the three, only Moi Stadium in Kisumu has been used over the past year.

Mombasa and Kip Keino are still closed with the renovation work progressing slowly.

In its new promise, the government has also promised to upgrade regional stadia in Kiambu, Makueni, Elgeyo Marakwet, Marsabit, Nyeri and Chuka.

They have also made a promise to encourage and support national football clubs, invest in setting up youth teams and provide the sporting facilities required to nurture and develop young talent.

At the same time, President Kenyatta has promised more support for anti-doping measures.

The country still remains in the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) watch-list but President Kenyatta has promised to help protect athletes by sustaining anti-doping education and sensitization campaigns through the proposed National Sports, Culture and Arts Fund, if re-elected.

The country was almost locked out of the Rio Olympics last year, but a race of shuttle diplomacy led by Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Ambassador Amina Mohammed saw WADA and IOC approve Kenya’s blueprint of fighting the menace.

The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) has been at the forefront of promoting sensitisation campaigns for athletes by organising seminars throughout the country. The government has now promised more support.

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KCB Captain Curtis Lilako leads teammates in celebrating lifting Kenya Cup.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 27 – Reigning Kenya Cup champions KCB RFC are scheduled to depart for a 10-day camp in South Africa on Thursday to start their pre-season.

The trip which comes hot on the heels of a brilliant performance this season will see the squad experience world class rugby training as they gear up to defending the Kenya and Enterprise cups when the season kicks off in November.

KCB Group Marketing and Communications Director Angela Mwirigi said the trip will expose the players to world class rugby training facilities as a build up to the 2017/18 season.

“The team  had a successful 2016/17 season winning two domestic titles, Kenya Cup and Enterprise Cup,The South Africa trip is an exposure for the rugby team to enable them defend the trophies in coming season ” Angela said.

The teams travel Itinerary indicates that the Bankers will play a couple of build-up friendlies in South Africa.  The squad will also get an opportunity to attend a super rugby game at Newlands when Stormers clash with Sunwolfs.

KCB Team Manager Rooney Kangeta has lauded the Bank for sponsoring the team to the Western Province Rugby Union after the brilliant 2016/17 season adding that the trip will be a major contributory factor to the team’s preparation for the 2017/2018 rugby season.

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FKF President Nick Mwendwa handing the ball to Deputy President William Ruto at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium.

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 27 – Deputy President William Ruto has blamed the County Governments of Kisumu and Mombasa for the delay of the construction of the promised stadia in the respective counties.

Ruto was speaking during the Jubilee manifesto launch on Monday evening at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani when asked about the five ultra modern stadia they promised when they were running up to their election in 2013.

President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government pledged five new stadia in Nairobi, Eldoret, Mombasa, Nakuru and Garissa but four years down the line, none has been realized and Ruto was quick to point out the reasons why.

“We have a challenge in Mombasa because the county government has issues of ownership of the land although all the contracts have been signed including for the tartan track,” the Deputy President said.

“We also have a challenge in Kisumu because the county government has not relocated the dumping site which is next to the stadium and international requirement cannot allow you to have a dumping site side by side with a stadium, but as soon as that is relocated the process will be complete,” Ruto added.

The Deputy President assured that six new stadia in Moyale, Chuka, Nyeri, Wote, Eldoret and West Pokot will be complete before December.

“As we talk today the stadium in Wote will be completed in six months time, in three months time the stadium in Moyale and Chuka will be complete. In six months time the stadium in West Pokot which is historic will be compete.”

“In a couple of months the stadium in Eldoret will be completed. In Nyeri there was a challenge of title deed but the President gave it and the programme has been rolled out so instead of five stadia we actually went for nine to make it good and better.”

In addition to that, Ruto said the government is spending close to Sh300m to refurbish Nyayo and Kasarani stadia with the later set to host the IAAF World U18 Championships that gets underway from July 12-16.

Kenya’s winning bid to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) hangs in the balance with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unimpressed by the facilities currently in place.

Apart from Kasarani, CAF is yet to approve the stadia its technical team visited at Nyayo National Stadium, Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, Kinoru Stadium in Meru, Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County and Afraha Stadium in Nakuru.

This year, Kenyan Premier League and National Super League teams have been hit hard by the unavailability of Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia due to refurbishment with the few remaining facilities being subjected to overuse.

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Golden State Warriors power forward and two times NBA winner James Michael McAdoo conducting basketball clinic in Wold Hope Center, Kawangware.PHOTO/Twitter

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 28 – Golden State Warriors power forward and two-time NBA winner James Michael McAdoo achieved one of his dreams when he set up a basketball camp in Kenya at Nairobi’s Kawangware estate.

The world basketball icon is offering a basketball clinic to over 130 children hailing from the region and its environs.

The four day camp whose theme is ‘One Died For All’ is based at the World Hope Centre and offers basketball clinic with a Christian touch.

“My life was impacted by a similar camp I attended when I was 11 years old, from then I purposed to do the same to other unfortunate kids in the US and around the world,” said Michael who jetted into the country on Friday.

The Kawangware camp that kicked off yesterday and will run till Thursday has two sessions every day for the children who have been fully kitted by the player.

The morning sessions are for children between 10-14 years and the afternoon session is being attended by players between 15-18 years.

Golden State Warriors power forward and two timesNBA winner James Michael McAdoo achieved one of his dreams when he set up a basketball camp in Kenya at Nairobi’s Kawangware estate.PHOTO/Twitter

“I have taken my NBA off season to come here and teach these lovely children basketball which is a game I so love and cherish. Part of the programme is to introduce them to the basics like shooting, dribbling, ball control and handling.”

“Beside these, I am here to introduce them to our Lord Jesus Christ and to strengthen their faith and knowledge because without Jesus I wouldn’t have reached the heights I have done in my basketball career,” he said.

Michael first assignment when he arrived at the World Hope Centre yesterday was to assign the children their teams where they will operate in the entire period of the clinic.

“Each team has two coaches, one local and the other is from the US, it is from these teams that the children will be taught the various basketball techniques as we compare the Kenyan way of play and the US way of the game,” he explained.

The 2009 US Basketball Male Athlete of the Year says he is here to give the children hope and nurture their talent. He believes Kenyan players too have potential to play in the NBA just like other notable players that have come from Sudan, Nigeria and other African countries who have made it big in NBA.

“We want the children to dream big, we want them to have a strong work ethics that will propel them to those heights they are laying their dreams, we want them to be totally dedicated to the dreams.”

Golden State Warriors power forward and two timesNBA winner James Michael McAdoo achieved one of his dreams when he set up a basketball camp in Kenya at Nairobi’s Kawangware estate.PHOTO/Twitter

Michael has pledged to make a follow up on the children he is training and he is hopeful that the Kenyan camp he has started will be annual.

“The whole idea here is to establish relationships with these children as we lead them toward their passionate as well as to Christ, to successfully achieve this we will have to strive and make follows up and probably link them with any exchange programme if opportunities arises,” he said.

Even though Michael is a two time NBA champion (2015 and 2017), that does not reflect in his humble state of life that is bordered in Christianity.

But he admits being an NBA champion with the best team in the world makes him feels totally blessed.

“The two times we won the NBA trophy we truly worked hard as a team, we had positive spirit in both occasions and were dedicated to our training, we had a strong work ethics,” Michael said while hinting that he has no plan to leave the Golden State Warriors any soon but would not object if any attractive offer comes his way.

Even though Michael studied history at the University of North Carolina, he is not planning to pursue that upon retirement from basketball and instead has made up his mind to carry on with the camp and spread it to other parts of the world.

Kenya is the second nation after US that Michael is holding the camp. He says he was able to come to Kenya after they were linked by World Hope Board Member Roy Mark.

His entourage that has 40 personnel including his parents Ronnie McAdoo and mother Janet, also offers medical camp at the venue. He also travelled with a music rap group who are entertaining children at the local schools around Nairobi.

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Olympic 5000m silver medallist Hellen Obiri winning at the Kenyan World Championships National Trials. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 28- Olympic 5000m silver medalist Hellen Obiri has declared she is in the form of her life ahead of August’s IAAF World Athletics Championships in London and has set her target at bringing home the gold medal in the 12-and-a-half lap race.

Obiri, who ran a blistering 14:18.37 at the Rome leg of the IAAF Diamond League early June setting a new National Record, Personal Best and a World Leading time, says she is ready to fill in the void left by star Vivian Cheruiyot who has transited to road running.

“One thing I believe is that I am in a shape that I have never been in my life. I will work hard and I believe that I am going to do something in London. I know there will be stiff competition especially from the Ethiopians, but I am not afraid of them,” Obiri told Capital Sport.

“There is Almaz Ayana who I have not seen her race this year and Genzebe Dibaba. I know they are strong athletes but I am not scared of them,” stated the 27-year old mother of one daughter.

Kenya’s Vivian Cheruiyot (R) and Hellen Obiri celebrate after taking gold and silver respectively in the women’s 5000m

Obiri won silver behind gold medallist Cheruiyot in the London Olympics ahead of Ethiopian Ayana, the reigning world champion and 10,000m world record holder who grabbed bronze.

Ethiopians dominated the race during the last World Championships in Beijing 2015 with Ayana leading a 1-2-3 sweep as Senberi Teferi and Dibaba won silver and bronze respectively.

The best placed Kenyan was Viola Kibiwott who finished fourth as Mercy Cherono, Janet Kisa and Irene Cheptai followed in fifth, sixth and seventh in that order.

Obiri will lead Margaret Chelimo in the hunt for the 5000m gold medal in London and she believes with her experience, the team will deliver the elusive title that a Kenyan last won in 2011 Daegu Worlds when Cheruiyot claimed double.

Hellen Obiri (leading) competing at the Kenyan Trials for the IAAF World Championships at Nyayo National Stadium.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

“Vivian (Cheruiyot) is not there anymore but I believe we are a strong team. The first target is to get into the final because it is not anybody’s game when it comes to the World Championships. Once we are there, we have to work as a team and I am confident we will win gold,” added Obiri who trains in Ngong.

The National Trials was Obiri’s fourth race this year having run at the Shanghai leg of the Diamond League winning the race in 14:22.47, then heading to Eugene where she ran the 1500m race in 4:00.46 to finish second.

Her only World Championship medal came in 2013 when she won bronze in the 1500m race.

She has also revealed plans of next year taking a shot at the World Record of 14:11.15 held by Ethiopian great Tirunesh Dibaba.

“It is not easy because it requires you to run a 14:12 or 14:13 constantly for some time. This year, I can’t say I will make an attempt for it. My only target now is the World Championships. Next year, maybe I will give it a try,” Obiri revealed.

The post I am in the form of my life, declares Obiri appeared first on Capital Sports.

Boniface Muchiri in action for Sony Sugar during a Kenyan Premier League match at the Afraha Stadium in Nakuru in June 18, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 28 – Kenyan Premier League defending champions Tusker FC have completed the signing of midfielder Boniface Muchiri from Sony Sugar on a three-year deal as head coach George Nsimbe looks to consolidate his side for a successful title defense.

Muchiri is Nsimbe’s fourth signing in the June transfer window which closes midnight Friday with the Brewers having re-signed midfielder Luis Misiko adding on to left-back David Mwangi from Mathare United and striker Paul Odhiambo from Sofapaka.

“Muchiri has been on our radar for a while because he has been performing very well at Sony. The coach had expressed interest in him and we are now glad that both sides have agreed and he will join us officially,” Tusker FC Chief Executive Officer Charles Obiny told Capital Sport.

The midfielder is expected to join his new team on Thursday and if he impresses the coach enough in terms of fitness, he will be included in the match day squad for their weekend tie at home to Bandari.

The midfielder could not hide his joy after completing the move to the capital and has now vowed to replicate and even double his efforts with the 11-time league champions.

“I am very excited to be joining this club and I also want to thank my former coaches at Sony because of the impact they have had on my career. As I leave, I will always cherish the time I spent there and the players as well because they have helped me grow to where I am today,” Muchiri said.

Kenyan Premier League clubs have been on frenzy spicing up their squads with the window shutting midnight Friday.

-AFC Leopards-

AFC Leopards players watch as Kitinyu Tafadzwa scores Singida’s goal. PHOTO/East Africa TV

AFC Leopards who have already signed Ugandan midfielder Keziron Kizito, Musa Mudde from Bandari, and Burundian Alex Kitenge have also added to their ranks former Thika United forward Ray Omondi and Chemelil Sugar midfielder Victor Majid to their ranks.

Mathare United on their side have kept it low despite their position on the table and have brought in from Thika United midfielder Victor Ashinga.

Ulinzi Stars early this week announced their final squad for the second leg which saw the return of midfielder Elvis Nandwa and striker Mark Bikokwa from military training.

Title winning under-20 captain Ibrahim Shambi was promoted while the team snapped up AFC Leopards midfielder Bernard Ongoma, Sony Sugar keeper Timothy Odhiambo and Bandari winger Omar Boraafya all who have just graduated from the Recruit Training School in Eldoret.

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David Rudisha in action in the 800m (AFP / Getty Images) © Copyright.

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 28 – David Rudisha’s dream of winning the Ostrava IAAF Golden Spike 1000m on his debut hit a snag when the two-time 800m Olympic Champion finished fourth in a race won by compatriot Nicholas Kipkoech on Wednesday night in Czech Republic.

Having started off well to lead the better part of the race, Rudisha found the going tough towards home straight when he was overtaken by Kipkoech who went on to win the race in 2:18.51 ahead of Jakub Holuša of Czech Republic who timed 2:18.60.

Having skipped the Kenyan Trials for the London IAAF World Championships, Rudisha looked fit, rushing at the front as it is his tradition to take control of the race behind the pace maker.

Kipkoech followed right on the shoulder of Rudisha heading to the bell as Ryan Gregson of Australia struggled to outmuscle the Kenyans but the world champion was quick to respond  heading to the final 200m.

However, Rudisha could not keep on the momentum as he was out of gas to see him finish fourth in 2:19.43 behind third placed Filip Sasínek of Czech Republic who returned 2:19.03.

In the men’s 3000m, Kenya’s Benjamin Kigen won in the absence of 3000m Olympic Steeplechase Champion Conseslus Kipruto, clocking 8:11.54 ahead of Ethiopian Getnet Wale who finished second in 8:13.16 while another Ethiopian Hailemariyam Amare completed the podium in 8:13.39.

– Farah on form –

Mo Farah of Britain ccelebrates winning the 5000m during the 2017 Prefontaine Classic Diamond League event, at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, on May 27

Britain’s Mo Farah marked his last circuit outing over 10,000m with victory in 27:12.09.

Since winning silver over 10k at the 2011 world champs in Daegu, Farah is on an unbroken streak of nine global final wins (the 5000m in 2011, and the double at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics and the 2013 and 2015 worlds).

But he will retire from the track to focus on road racing after the world champs on home soil in August.

The 34-year-old held off Kenyan Mathew Kimeli for a smart win just 4sec off Abadi Hadis’ world leading mark.

“It was my last 10km race and I enjoyed it,” said Farah. “I honestly hoped I could run a bit faster but the wind slowed me down even though we ran quite a fast pace from the beginning.”

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Previous action of the NBA action.PHOTO/courtesy

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 29- East Conference champions Slums Dunk Nets will take on West Conference winners FAM KE Warriors in the Jr. NBA Nairobi Finals slated for Saturday at Africa Nazarene University.

The game which tips off at 2pm is the culmination of three and a half months of Under 14 boys’ basketball which saw 30 local school teams taking part.

The game is the culmination of three and a half months of U14 boys’ basketball which saw 30 local school teams taking part. Each school team represented one of the NBA teams and played their games in corresponding NBA team-branded jerseys.

The Jr. NBA Nairobi League structure also mirrored the NBA’s with the teams divided into the Eastern and Western Conferences with the top eight from each conference qualifying for the playoffs.

The Jr. NBA is the league’s global youth basketball participation program for boys and girls. It teaches the fundamental skills as well as the core values of the game at the grassroots level in an effort to help grow and improve the youth basketball experience for players, coaches and parents.

During last NBA season, the Jr. NBA reached more than 18 million youth in 53 countries.

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