GSU officers paroling at Kasarani Stadium ahead of the IAAF World U18 Championships to be hosted in Nairobi.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 9- Three days to the 10th and final edition of the IAAF World Under-18 Championships, security at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani is at an all time high with hundreds of police officers deployed to ensure the championship runs smooth.

A police post has already been set up at the venue to ensure peace and order is maintained during the five-day event.

The late Cabinet Secretary for Internal Security Joseph Nkaiserry, before his untimely death on Saturday morning had promised that his ministry would see to it that 100 percent security preparedness is in place for the championship.

Security meeting at Kasarani Stadium.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

He had visited and inspected the venue only last weekend, and speaking to Capital Sport promised that not even the political environment would affect the security in and around the venue.

“It (Nkaiserry’s death) is a huge loss to the nation and all of us. We have a good security team that was put up by General Nkaiserry which was one of the key things he worked on and we really appreciate him for that,” Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario said on Sunday morning after a short meeting with some of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) members.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario speaking at a press briefing at Moi International Sports Center Kasarani where the 10th edition of the IAAF World U18 Championships will take place.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Wario is expected to make another round of inspection where the LOC will officially hand over the competition to the government, before the government in turn hands it over to the IAAF.

“I want to assure everyone that the preparation is on course. We have more than 99 percent preparedness for the location and everything is ready for the competition. There may be some little things remaining here and there but within the next few days we will be ready for everything,” Wario added.

Electronic Timing.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Fourteen teams have already arrived in Nairobi ahead of the start on Wednesday with the opening ceremony set to be presided over by President Uhuru Kenyatta and IAAF president Sebastian Coe.

While final touches continue being dotted down all across Kasarani, athletes have already started having a feel of the track inside the main competition arena. The training arena is also open with the hammer throw net already put up while the track is marked and complete

The Kasarani Stadium where the event will be held.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The stands are getting a new feel of paint with the IAAF colors of brown and white, while technicians from Seiko are hard at work putting in place the timing machines. Official Broadcasters SuperSport have also started setting up as Kenya looks to host one of the biggest events in the recent past.

Wario also said that a cultural village will be set up where Kenya will showcase its diverse tradition, the championship also opening up an opportunity to sell Kenya as a tourist destination.

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Bandari FC players celebrate at the Thik Stadium after eliminating Gor Mahia from the GOtv Shield on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

THIKA, Kenya, Jul 9- Substitute keeper Joseph Okoth was the hero as 2015 GOtv Shield champions Bandari eliminated 10-time Champions Gor Mahia on a 6-5 post-match penalties at the Thika Sub-County Stadium on Sunday.

Okoth had come in as a 91st minute substitute replacing Wilson Obungu and he proved the gamble was the right one, saving three penalties including the decisive one taken by midfielder Kenneth Wendo.

No winner was picked off from the first five penalties, taking the game to sudden death and Okoth proved to be the man of the moment.

The first five produced as much drama, with Bandari surviving by the skin of their teeth. Duncan Otewa was the first on the roster and he saw his kick fly out wide, handing Gor the advantage.

Meddie Kagere stepped up and took the advantage fully, scoring Gor’s first. Cosmas Lewis stepped up for Bandari’s second and scored sending Boniface Oluoch the wrong way.

New signing Boniface Omondi stepped up for Gor’s second making no mistake as Hamisi Mwinyi responded for Bandari.

Harun Shakava then scored for Gor with a brilliant kick taking the scores to 3-2. Bandari saw themselves fall off favor with Anthony Lugogo seeing his penalty saved by Boniface Oluoch.

However, Gor could not take the favor, Francis Kahata’s effort being saved by Okoth.

Bandari FC defender Noah Abich closes down on Gor Mahia’s Meddie Kagere in a GOtv Shield match at teh Thika Stadium on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Noah Abich then stepped up to take Bandari’s last to keep them in the game and despite his former teammate at Tusker Oluoch having a touch, the ball spiraled into the net.

Oluoch then turned the other way to take Gor’s final kick and he only needed to score to ensure K’Ogalo, the record champions of the tournament go through. However, he struck his effort low and wide, seeing the first five kicks end at a 3-3 stalemate.

In sudden death Anthony Wambani and Michael Luvutsi as well as Wellington Ochieng and captain Musa Mohammed scored the first two penalties apiece.

The real drama unfolded in the third efforts when Bandari’s Siraj Mohammed struck the crossbar. Kenneth Muguna stepped up to take Gor’s third and he only needed to score to give Gor the win, but his effort was saved by Okoth.

Felly Mulumba gave Bandari lease of life scoring the fourth sudden death kick and Okoth ensured they won saving from Wendo.

Gor Mahia forward Jacques Tuyisenge chases down Bandari’s Andrew Waisswa during a GOtv Shield match at the Thika Stadium on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

The game was forced into penalties after a 1-1 stalemate in regulation time with Gor racing from a goal down. After a goalless first half which had plenty of scoring opportunities, the game opened up in the second half.

From a brilliantly executed counter attack, Bandari opened the scoring in the 57th minute through Cosmas.

The Dockers broke off on the right with the impressive Hassan Abdallah injecting some good punch of pace on the right beating Ernest Wendo and Musa Mohammed before laying in a low cross that Cosmas only tapped in.

Gor restored parity with 15 minutes left on the clock when substitute Omondi scored from close range after picking up a spill from Bandari keeper Obungu.

The Bandari backline had lost concentration after a clash involving Mulumba and Kagere and just as they were shaking off, they conceded.

Winger Innocent Wafula won the ball on the right before shooting low at goal with Obungu failing to hold on to the ball.

-Bidco through-

Bidco FC players celebrate their goal against Rain Forest at the Thika Stadium on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

In the earlier kick off, goals in either half by Stephen Onyango and Geoffrey Ouma gave National Super League side Bidco United a 2-0 win over Rain Forest Rangers as they advanced to the third round of the Gotv Shield.

Bidco should have won by a bigger margin had they converted their numerous chances but we’re lucky the lower tier Rangers side were neither as sharp upfront of goal.

Onyango opened the scoring on the half hour mark with a simple header inside the box from a cross on the right.

Bidco had created great scoring opportunities prior to the goal with former Sofapaka man John Walubuka and David Juma missing sitters.

In the second half,  Bidco continued dominating and they should have scored with open chances again.

First,  Walubuka hit the crossbar with an open goalmouth after dribbling past everybody including the goalkeeper.

Minutes later, Onyango squandered a chance that was harder to miss than score when he headed over alone in the box from an Edwin Walumolu cross.

However, substitute Ouma made it 2-0 in the 89th minute with a simple tap in off a Heritier Luvualu cross from the left. Ouma had been on the pitch for less than five minutes after coming on for the injured Juma.

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New Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr shares tactics with assistant coach Zedekiah Otieno at half time during their GOtv Shield match against Bandari at the Thika Stadium on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 10 – New Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr is impressed with the quality of the Gor Mahia players having watched them for the first time in action on Sunday during their GOtv Shield round of 32 penalties loss to Bandari FC in Thika.

Kerr, who has formerly coached Simba SC in Tanzania, arrived in the country early Sunday morning and headed straight to Thika.

The Briton conceded a loss wasn’t the best possible welcome for him, he is comforted by the fact that he has a team strong enough to bounce back.

“Obviously this was not the best way to welcome me to Kenya because it is my first day here but from what I have seen I am impressed. Losing a Cup game on penalties is a painful way of going out but they played really well especially in the second half but got caught on the counter,” Kerr told Capital Sports after watching the side.

“We took the ball well, moved well, created chances which we didn’t score. The team has players with ability; they are comfortable on the ball can control and pass, despite playing on a poor surface,” Kerr stated.

New Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr savors the surrounding at the Thika Stadium on July 9, 2017 during the side’s GOtv Shield clash against Bandari. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

“We should start getting that winning mentality because they lost the previous match, drew last weekend and now this cup game. We have to take lots of positives but obviously there are a few negatives which we will work on.”

Kerr has promised Gor fans that they should expect the team back flying on top, noting that he has been impressed with the passion he has seen at the club straight from the fans to the technical bench and players.

“They should expect hard work dedication, sacrifice, standards honesty, transparency and working as a team. The fans are fantastic, the staff I have met are great, everyone works hard and everyone’s goal is to be successful which is quite great for a club,” the coach added.

He joins K’Ogalo after leaving his coaching role with the Chesterfield Under-18 team back in England and his first assignment will be to lead Gor to a friendly against English Premier League club Everton FC in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on Thursday.

New Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr with assistant coach Zedekiah Otieno at half time during their GOtv Shield match against Bandari at the Thika Stadium on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Kerr, who knows a lot about the English game expects a thrilling but tough match from the Merseyside club, and has urged his players to put in their best show and audition against one of the best teams from around the world.

“The motivation for each player is simple; go out and show them what you got as a player because if you show a good performance you will get recognized. There are a lot of African players in Europe and if you have to get there you got to perform against the big teams and it is a good marker and players should go out there and enjoy themselves,” Kerr commented.

After the Tanzania experience, Gor will make their way back to the country with their sole purpose being to reclaim the Kenyan Premier League title.

Kerr finds the club perched at the apex of the log on 28 points, same as defending champions Tusker but with a superior goal difference. He is confident he will finish in the same position at the end of the season and has asked for support from the fans.

The post Kerr impressed with Gor Mahia quality appeared first on Capital Sports.

New AFC leopards head coach Robert Matano taking charge of his final match as BIdco FC coach on July 9, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 10 – Robert Matano has promised to take AFC Leopards back to the top as he prepares for a return to the club he coached in 2010 and 2011, saying he is confident with his experience and abilities, Ingwe will roar again.

Matano took charge of his last game as National Super League side Bidco FC head coach on Sunday, marking his last bow with a 2-0 win over Forest Rangers in the GOtv Shield and he now switches energies to AFC.

“There’s nothing new to me because as a coach, I am used to it. We come and go; that’s the nature of our job. You can go and come back even 50 times but every time you make a comeback is a new challenge. I am ready for it,” Matano told Capital Sport.

Matano will take charge of his first AFC Leopards training session on Monday morning and he is wary of the challenge ahead of him with the 13-time Kenyan Premier League champions being perched 12th in the log with a tail of eight winless matches.

“I am a senior coach with a lot of experience and I love challenges. I love to compete and I am grateful to be back to the league. It is a big challenge but soon enough, everyone will see what I am capable of doing. The team will be back,” the tactician, fondly referred to as ‘The Lion’ declared.

AFC Leopards in action during the GOtv Shield

“I cannot say much about them because I have not seen the team, its strength and abilities of the players. I will look at the whole situation in training and then plan there. I am ready for the job, no doubt.”

Matano becomes the fourth AFC Leopards coach this season and he takes charge on a six month deal, with the possibility of extending after the end of the season depending on how the club performs.

On whether he will turn the fortunes around, Matano is not shy of confidence.

“We will. We just have to change the mentality and attitude of the players and improve their performance. That’s all,” the tough tactician added.

Matano, who left Ulinzi Stars after 18 months in December last year, started off the season with Nairobi City Stars, but left early last month to join Bidco FC.

The tactician faced tough final months of the year in 2016, having fallen ill, hampering his coaching job and seeing him stay out from August.

“To be honest it was a big challenge and it spoiled my plans with the league and GOtv Shield last year. It was very unfortunate but I thank God that I fought and won the war. I am back and I will work hard to get back to the winning coach that I am,” Matano said.

He stands as the only coach to have won the Kenyan Premier League twice with two different teams, having won it with Sofapaka on their debut in the top flight league in 2009 then with Tusker FC in 2012. Though he concedes it will be a long shot this season, he hopes he can pick up a third title soon.

He will not be shy of challenging for trophies, with Ingwe having progressed to the third round of the GOtv Shield.

The post Matano ready to roar Ingwe back to the top appeared first on Capital Sports.

Rooney puts pen to paper to finalise the free transfer from Manchester United.PHOTO/Daily Mail

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 10 – Wayne Rooney says Everton’s pre-season trip to Tanzania where the Toffees will face record 15-time Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia provides the perfect opportunity for him to get to know his new teammates.

England’s all-time leading goalscorer completed an emotional return to his boyhood club Everton on Sunday, signing a two-year deal at Goodison Park.

Rooney reported for his first day of training at USM Finch Farm on Monday and will be part of the travelling party to east Africa later this week as Ronald Koeman’s take on SportPesa Super Cup winners, Gor, in a friendly on Thursday. The trip will celebrate Everton’s Club-record partnership with betting firm SportPesa.

The 31-year-old is already familiar with a number of Everton’s current squad, having played with Morgan Schneiderlin and fellow summer signing Michael Keane during a 13-year stint with Manchester United, and Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines and Ross Barkley while on international duty.

And now Rooney is looking forward to getting to know more of the squad on his maiden visit to Tanzania.

“I’m looking forward to it – it should be a good trip,” he told evertontv. “It’ll be nice and hopefully I’ll get on the pitch and get some game-time.

“It’s good when you go away with the team. It’s good to be around the hotel with the players, spend more time with them and get to know them more.

“I’ve never been to Tanzania before, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

-By Everton FC-

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First Lady Margaret Kenyatta with the Germany team ahead of the IAAF World U18 at the Kasarani Stadium.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 10 – With just a day to the 10th edition of the IAAF World U18 Championships to be hosted in Nairobi, First Lady Margaret Kenyatta on Monday made a final inspection of Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani ahead of the global showpiece that starts on Wednesday.

The First Lady inspected facilities in the main competition arena including the newly laid tartan tracks, the media centre, and the warm-up tracks before heading to the accreditation centre for registration.

The First Lady is the current patron of the Biennial International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) W-U18 championships, Kenya Chapter.

The Nairobi 2017 competitions mark the last edition of the iconic championships that have been held in nine other countries since the inaugural event in Poland in 1999.

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta with LOC boss Mwangi Muthee.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

An impressed First Lady mingled and chatted openly with both the officials of the  W-U18 Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and young athletes from various countries who excitedly took pictures with her.

But even as the First Lady expressed her satisfaction with the renovations at the MISC where engineers and technicians were putting final touches to the facilities, officials from various foreign delegations gave a positive verdict that Kenya had put in place facilities meeting international standards.

“These facilities are very good. This is fantastic,” said Mr Olaf Brockmann, a Press Delegate who is among those managing the Media Centre.

“Such Media Centre has not happened before”, added Mr. Brockmann whose sentiments were echoed by a senior medical Doctor managing the 60-strong team of athletes from Germany.

“This is a very good stadium. We like it very much,” said the doctor as young members of his team expressed their satisfaction with their stay in Kenya, a country they described as safe and with “fantastic weather.”

Team Kenya training at Kasarani Stadium. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Many other officials from the 135 countries attending the championships expressed similar sentiments that Kenya had put in place facilities and preparations that meet the international billing.

“Kenya has exceeded our expectations. No wonder some of the greatest world beaters come from this country,” said one delegate who did not wish to be identified.

The First Lady was taken around the various sporting facilities by Sports, Culture and the Arts Cabinet Secretary Dr. Hassan Wario and LOC  Chief Executive Officer  Mwangi Muthee among other officials.

She was received at the MISC by renown world champions Catherine Ndereba (two time Marathon Gold Medalist and four times Boston Marathon winner), David Rudisha (King of 800 metres), Mercy Cherono (5,000 metres Queen), Julius Yego of the Javelin throwing fame, Douglas Wakiihuri (Marathon legend) and Tecla Lorupe.

Firat Lady Margaret Kenyatta with some of the countries that arrived.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Like Germany, Kenya is also fielding 60 young Athletes-comprising 31 girls and 29 boys- in all the 17 competitions on offer.

Other countries fielding high numbers of athletes include China (61), France (45) and Turkey (44).

Sporting enthusiasts are optimistic that no country can beat Kenya at home. Kenya has always emerged between position 1-3 in the previous 9 editions of the iconic championships.

Besides the athletes and their managers, Nairobi expects to host over 5,000 visitors this week alone and pump over Sh 2.5 billion to the local economy.

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta having a chat with an athlete from Germany.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The event is also expected to have a major impact on the tourism sector because millions of people from over 200 countries will be watching the events in Kenya.

The over 1400 athletes and their managers will also serve as ambassadors of Kenya when they return to their respective homes with a positive image of the country.

President Uhuru Kenyatta is scheduled to open the championships on Wednesday afternoon.

The post Kenya’s IAAF U18 preparedness wows the world appeared first on Capital Sports.

Paul Nkata won the GOtv Shield with Tusker FC last year.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 11- Ugandan coach Paul Nkata is determined to make history by being the first tactician to win the GOtv Shield back-to-back with two different teams after guiding Bandari to the third round of the tournament with a win against Gor Mahia over the weekend.

Nkata, who joined the Dockers at the beginning of the year, led Tusker to their first GOtv Shield title in 23 years last year and after beating Gor, a side that has won the most title in the GOtv Shield competition, Nkata is optimistic he can go on and win the title again.

“We can’t say much about that at the moment, but we are just taking one match at a time. It is a difficult tournament, but it is something that we can do. We have a good team and having beaten a side like Gor which is very strong, anything is possible,” Nkata pointed out.

Bandari had to endure a nervous penalty shoot-out session at the Thika Sub-County Stadium on Sunday with a winner found after nine strokes, the Dockers going off 6-5 winners.

In the round of 16 scheduled for July 23, they will face off with fellow Kenyan Premier League side Nakumatt FC who also had to endure the gamble of penalties before seeing off National Super League (NSL) side Modern Coast 7-6.

Bandari FC head coach Paul Nkata issueing instructions.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

At the same time, defending champions Tusker FC have been handed what on paper looks like an easy route to the quarter finals, as they will face off third tier side Butterfly FC.

The Brewers were made to work hard before winning 1-0 against NSL side Palos FC at the Kinoru Stadium in Meru and as they plot their title defense, head coach George Nsimbe knows it is not an easy path.

“It was a very tough match against Palos and that just goes to show that if we want to win this tournament again we have to work very hard. I am pleased that we could win that match and now we forget about it and look at the next round,” Nsimbe told Capital Sport.

“Our target still remains to defend this title and we will work hard to ensure we do. We are not under pressure and I think that is why we are managing to get results. Hopefully we can continue that way.”

In other round of 16 pairings, 2014 champions Sofapaka will face off Kariobangi Sharks, a side that reached the quarter finals last year. Sofapaka were 1-0 winners over fellow KPL opposition Western Stima while Kariobangi Sharks saw off Nairobi Regional League side Kenpoly 2-0.

Bandari FC head coach Paul Nkata.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Batoto ba Mungu are looking to end a trophy drought that dates back to their win in the tournament three years ago, and head coach Sam Ssimbwa is overly confident with a re-jigged side, he will attain his target.

Meanwhile, Ulinzi Stars’ hopes of going one better than last season and winning the title went up in smoke after a 1-0 loss to Sony Sugar at home. Amos Asembeka scored against the soldiers for the second time in less than three weeks dumping them out.

Ulinzi head coach Benjamin Nyangweso was left ruing missed chances and he now shifts all his energies to the Kenyan Premier League title hunt.

Sony will now face fellow Sugar Belt side Nzoia Sugar in the round of 16.

GOtv Shield round of 16 fixtures:

Bandari v Nakumatt, Sony Sugar v Nzoia Sugar, Young Divers v Savannah, Sofapaka v Kariobangi Sharks, GFE 105 v Wazito, Bidco United v AFC Leopards, Kakamega Homeboyz v Vihiga United, Tusker FC v Butterfly.

The post Nkata seeks history with Bandari in Shield appeared first on Capital Sports.

Gor Mahia players touch down at the Julius Nyerere Airport in Tanzania ahead of the friendly match against Everton on July 13, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, Jul 11- Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars defender Harun Shakava is already whetting his appetite for a possible match up against England’s all-time top scorer Wayne Rooney as K’Ogalo prepare to take on Everton in a friendly match in Dar es Salaam on Thursday.

Rooney re-joined his boyhood club after a stint at Manchester United and the Merseyside club confirmed that the former England Captain will be part of the travelling party to Tanzania, though it is not yet confirmed whether he will be in the playing team for Thursday.

But nonetheless, Shakava who is an ardent follower of the English Premier League is already excited at the prospect of facing the 31-year old.

“It is something great for us as players and personally as a defender. Rooney is a big player and everyone knows his abilities. I think he plays like any player but the difference is he is on another level with different exposure,” Shakava said after Gor touched down in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday.

“It is not only a challenge but a huge honor to play against him and as defenders we hope we can contain him. It motivates me a lot to play against him because he is someone I have always watched on TV and playing against him is an achievement. I am hoping we prove ourselves that day,” he aded.

Gor Mahia captain Musa Mohammed and trainer Sandro Fantoni at the Julius Nyerere Airport in Tanzania ahead of the friendly match against Everton on July 13, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Shakava says they are not afraid of facing the Ronald Koeman coached side but notes they will approach the match with caution noting they are playing against a side laden with not only experience but international stars as well.

The defender has cautioned that his team will not go all out but will approach the game with caution, with a major inclination of putting their best feet forward.

“This game will be broadcast all over and it will be important for us as players to show our best,” Shakava said.

Playing against English opposition will not be a new thing for Shakava who was part of the team that played Hull City’s junior team in England early this year and he says he will share the experience with his teammates who were not in the trip.

“The biggest difference with the English League is the speed. They play at a much higher tempo which is not easy but what we need to do is contain them and if need be, match their pace as well,” the former Kakamega Homeboyz man noted.

-Good for exposure, says Zico-

Karim Nizigiyimana and Francis Kahata touch down at the Julius Nyerere Airport in Tanzania ahead of the friendly match against Everton on July 13, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

The same sentiments are shared by assistant coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno who says the game will be a challenge to the local lads to show they can match the abilities of an English Premier League club, and notes the biggest thing the team will be taking in is getting the lessons.

“The most important thing from such a friendly match is not the result but the lessons we pick. We are not here to beat them, we are here to learn. We are hoping we have a good show, that will be a plus for us,” Otieno noted.

“We hope the players will stick to the game plan and at the end of the day celebrate and pick lessons if we can play well, match them in terms of tactics and man for man then it will be a plus,” the tactician added.

He adds they are not afraid of facing Everton even with Rooney returning and has urged the players to put on their best show as they look to open up opportunities of being scouted in Europe.

-Kerr, Mugiraneza back home-

New Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr at the Julius Nyerere Airport in Tanzania ahead of the friendly match against Everton on July 13, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Meanwhile, New head coach Dylan Kerr and midfielder Jean Baptiste Mugiraneza are ‘back home’ in Tanzania, a country they each had their football journey in a while back.

Mugiraneza played for Azam for two years before joining Gor while Kerr coached Simba SC between 2014 and 2015.

“It feels great to be back in Tanzania and I really feel at home. I have played here for two years, I know the weather I know the people and so it’s not hard for me. I am more so happy because I return to play in a big match such as this and I hope we will win,” the Rwandese midfielder said.

Kerr who arrived in the country on Saturday to take on the new job was embraced by fans as he walked off the airport arrivals lounge, clearly most being Simba fans who loved him during his stay in Msimbazi.

“I almost felt like putting on a Simba jersey!” Kerr joked, speaking to Capital Sport as he wielded a wide smile, clearly nostalgic from his 15 months at Simba.

“I am pleased to be back and on such a big occasion. We go out there to put in our best and hopefully, we come out victorious. I have only had one training session with the team, a recovery one on Monday and I have watched them play once, so I know what needs to be done,” Kerr, who coached the Chesterfield Under-18 team before coming to Gor said.

-Timothy Olobulu is reporting from Dar-

The post Shakava relishing Rooney challenge as Gor touch down in Dar appeared first on Capital Sports.

LOC boss Mwangi Muthee and Sports PS Kirimi Kaberia meets IAAF President Lord Sebastain Coe. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

NAIROBI, Kenya, IAAF President Sebastian Coe says it is a big moment for Kenya as the nation prepares to stage the last edition of the World Under-18 Championships at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani.

Speaking in a press briefing on the eve of the event in Nairobi, Coe was pleased with the development of upcoming athletes in Kenya after meeting President Uhuru Kenyatta who assured him of full support.

In his statement, Coe welcomed the world to the Nairobi 2017 Championships that officially start in the Kenyan capital on Wednesday to run until Sunday.

“This is not a sacrifice, this is a labour of love for anybody that loves athletics to be witnessing athletics in this nation that has made such an extraordinary contribution to the history of our sport for the last 30 or so years,” the IAAF chief said.

IAAF President Lord Sebastian Coe. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Coe paid tribute to the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Kenya for putting together what promises to be a fitting farewell to the event formerly known as the IAAF World Youth Championships.

“This is a very big moment in the history of Kenyan athletics. My visit here is also a personal one because much of my career as an athlete was defined by great races and competition with Kenyan athletes.

Kenyan athletes have made a huge mark on our global sport way before I became a senior international athlete,” the retired two-time Olympic champion and middle distance world record holder added.

The IAAF President stressed the global track and event showpiece that will be discontinued after Nairobi 2017 in favour of continental U18 championships is the perfect stage for the next generation to showcase their prowess.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity to watch the talent and the champions of the future. It’s through this edition that Usain Bolt, Alyson Felix and other great athletes have emerged.”

“There is no reason why we should not be uncovering some of the jewels of our future championships. Some of those athletes will travel to London at the World Championships,” the 1986 European 800m gold medallist underscored.

Kenyan legends Rose Tata Muya (left), Billy Konchellah (Center) and Julius Kariuki engaging IAAF President Sebastian Coe.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

He paid homage to great Kenyan runners such as former Olympic champions Naftali Temu (men 10000m), Amos Biwott (men 3000m steeplechase) and Kipchoge Keino (men 1500m, 3000m steeple) to the stars of today for their contribution to the sport.

“Your history is our history and I’m delighted to be here to celebrate the largest track and field event to ever come in Africa,” Coe added.

The IAAF chief met President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday morning before coming to the international press conference at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani that will host the WU18 action until Sunday.

“This event signifies the commitment Kenya has for our sport. I visited the President of Kenya where he committed and continues to commit to our sport. He promised to look at the sport more broadly outside elite competition where you have excelled at,” Coe underscored.

SuperSport cameraman.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The Moscow 1980 and Los Angeles 1984 Olympic men 1500m champion joined the country in mourning the late Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Coordination, Major General (Rtd) Joseph Nkaissery who was instrumental in the planning for Nairobi 2017 who passed on in the early hours of last Saturday.

“My sympathies to family and friends of Cabinet Secretary who so sadly passed away who was so inseparably responsible for some of security ambitions. I paid our respects and the respects of the federation to the President this morning,” Coe added.

Coe toured the facilities including the stadium, media tribune and competitors’ area before leaving to pay a visit to Kenyan distance running legend Tegla Loroupe and her Refugee Athletes Team that made history at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Nairobi 2017 will be streamed across 160 countries on the IAAF YouTube and Facebook channels and will be covered live by South African pay television channel SuperSport and local broadcaster Kenya Broadcasting Corporation.

-By SportPesa News-

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First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and IAAF President Sebastian Coe lead senior Government officials, IAAF officials, world-class athletes and LOC officials in a jig during the championships’ welcome dinner.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 11- First Lady Margaret Kenyatta on the eve of the 10th edition of the IAAF World U18 Championships assured the globe of Kenya’s preparedness to deliver a world class event that start on Wednesday at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani.

The First Lady said all the partners including IAAF and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) officials are all responsible in ensuring a fair and credible competition is held without any distractions to the competitors.

The First Lady commended the organizers, partners and the many volunteers for their dedication, stamina and determination to overcome the many challenges standing on their way to ensure Kenya’s preparations for the championships meet international standards.

“For the Government of Kenya, the IAAF, LOC and all the partners the time has come for us to deliver a world class competition and the stage is ready! We are all responsible in ensuring that our competitors are able to compete in a fair and credible environment, protected from any distractions that impede the athletes from performing their best,” she said.

The First Lady spoke during a welcome dinner she co-hosted with the IAAF president Lord Sebastian Coe for key partners who have been working tirelessly to ensure the success of the (Nairobi 2017) championships.

President Uhuru Kenyatta is tomorrow afternoon scheduled to open the competitions at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The First Lady is the current patron of the last biennial showpiece that will be held in Kenya with over 130 nations set to participate.

Her office and LOC have worked tirelessly to ensure that Kenya, a nation recognized globally as a powerhouse for great champions in athletics, hosts a competition that the country and the world will be proud off.

Besides the IAAF and LOC officials, other partners at the splendid dinner included Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and retired athletes who have in the past conquered the world in various disciplines.

Others were top sports managers, Security agencies, the UN-family and Protocol officers considering that over 1400 athletes, coaches, managers and doctors from over 130 countries are participating in the competitions.

Besides thanking the organizers of the championships and its partners, the dinner provided the visitors with an opportunity to sample the local cuisine and mingle with colleagues from Kenya’s sporting fraternity and government officials.

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and IAAF President Sebastian Coe lead senior Government officials, IAAF officials, world-class athletes and LOC officials in a jig during the championships’ welcome dinner.

The First Lady said she was extremely proud of being associated with the IAAF WU-18 sporting event adding that she is very passionate about the youth and their pursuits.

“I thank the IAAF for providing a platform for our children to participate in sporting activities and giving them an opportunity to pursue a sports career. I am convinced that sports is an important vehicle that will provide our youth with a positive competitive spirit, values, attitudes, determination and focus to shape their life skills,” she said.

The First Lady told the athletes to embrace and demonstrate good sportsmanship by accepting the outcome of the competitions.

“I know competitions have become tougher, and training has become more rigorous, requiring lots of personal sacrifice. This week, we shall see new records broken, thrilling performances, excitement, victories and defeats,” she told the excited athletes.

On Monday afternoon, the First Lady took time off to mingle, chat and take photographs with some youth delegates including those from Germany, Morocco and Kenya when she made a final inspection of the renovated sporting facilities at the MISC.

Lord Coe said the history of Kenyan athletes is key to the history of world athletics. He said the country had contributed immensely in world athletics.

“It is befitting to have these championships in Kenya,” said Lord Coe who also presented the First Lady with an IAAF honorary plaque.

The IAAF President was full of praise of Kenyan athletes, some of whom had conquered the world despite coming from challenging backgrounds like Tecla Lorupe.

He also praised the Kenyan athletes for being “humble off the track” despite their prowess on the tracks.

Kenya won the inaugural WU-18 championships in Poland in 1999 and the 6th edition of the competitions in Italy in 2009.

Sporting enthusiasts are optimistic that no country can beat Kenya at home and over 200 countries will be watching whether the 60-strong team of young Kenyan athletes can maintain the global fame that the country is the king of the track.

The current championships mark the final edition of the WU-18 competitions.

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Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr shows off some of his skills during training at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on July 11, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, Jul 11- Record 15-time Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia will square it out with English Premier League side Everton FC on a new playing surface at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, specifically laid out with imported grass for the game.

The pitch has been closed for the last five weeks and sponsors of both clubs, SportPesa, have contracted renowned English Sportsground Construction and Civil Engineering Company Clive Richardson Limited for the job.

The amazing status of the playing surface wowed Gor Mahia players who made it for their light evening work-out under new head coach Dylan Kerr.

“Now this is a football pitch!” assistant coach Zedekiah Otieno marveled as he laid out cones on the pitch ready for the session.

Gor Mahia players doing drills during training at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on July 11, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Team Manager Jolawi Obondo speaking to Capital Sport said he expects an exciting game especially with the flat out smooth surface favoring Gor Mahia’s ‘tap and go’ game.

“The field is amazing and we should have a great game here. This is what a football field should look like. It is very even and well maintained,” Obondo said.

Gor Mahia head coach Dylan Kerr, who spent 15 months in Tanzania with Simba SC whose home matches were at the same pitch, was equally marveled with the new look.

“I mean I kept telling them every day to cut down the grass but they never did so. You could hit a pass, go out and have a McDonald’s and return to the pitch before the pass got to the next player. The grass was too thick!” Kerr joked on the sides as Gor prepared for training.

View of the National Stadium pitch in Dar es Salaam where Gor Mahia will take on Everton FC in a friendly match on July 13, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Turning up against a professional side already used to playing in well manicured lawns and to prevent the increasing risk of injury, the South England Company took over the task of refurbishing the playing surface and have done an immensely marvelous job at it.

Speaking to Capital Sport, groundsman Shane McGeown, who has worked in almost all the popular football pitches including Old Trafford and St. Mary’s in Southampton, said for such a team as Everton, the state of the surface was a key concern and it had to be meticulous.

He revealed that the company imported 20 bags of Rye Grass from Northern Ireland and merged it together with the already existing Bermuda grass.

Rye grass is known for its quick growing nature and resistance to pests, meaning it is more eco-friendly as a lesser amount of chemicals are used on it.

It is also one of the few “throw and grow” seeds that can be sown without the hassle of tilling, scarifying, or digging into the soil and destroying any of the permanent ground covers already in place.

Gor Mahia midfielder Kenneth Muguna dribbles the ball during training at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on July 11, 2017.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Bermuda grass which is the most common on African pitches is valued for its exceptional heat and drought tolerance and a capacity to withstand heavy use and recuperate quickly. Its blend with Rye makes out a perfect balance in texture of the pitch. Just like Rye, it grows very fast.

“The pitch was not good when we arrived here. We had to rip apart the entire surface. There was so much dead grass around and we had to get rid of all of it. We also dug up a new foundation and put up layers of sand to ensure a good foundation,” McGeown said.

He added; “We had to put in new fertilizer (Everest) and also get to put in some new chemicals time and again to kill off any diseases that would eat up the grass. I think the product looks fantastic now.”

The pitch has been made to European standards with the match organizers hoping to put up a superb show for the English premier League side.

His only concern though is the maintenance after he leaves, though he says he might consider remaining for a further three months.

“I heard that the stadium last season was used for over 40 matches. That’s insane. The most a pitch can hold should be maximum of 23 matches to ensure it remains fresh and well maintained,” the Irish pitch expert noted.

-Timothy Olobulu is reporting from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania-

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George Manang’oi winning the Boys 1500m.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 12 – On the opening day of the10th edition of the IAAF World U18 Championships being hosted at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani, Team Kenya started on a high with qualification into the final of the Boys 1500m.

Also qualifying to the semis are the Boys 100m as well as Boys and Girls 400m.

In the second race of the day, Kenya’s Elijah Okware Mathew wowed the crowd that attended Kasarani Stadium when he clocked a Personal Best of 10.78 in the Boys 100m to automatically qualify for the semis after finishing third.

Running from the outside lane, Mathew’s heat was the slowest of the five with Jamaican Wilson Tyreke showing the prowess his country has in sprints, winning the last heat in 10.60.

Kenya’s Elijah Onkware finished third against Danelson Mahautiere.photo/Raymond Makhaya

Danelson Mahautiere of Dominican crossed the line second in 10.74 ahead of the Kenyan Mathew who was pleased with his performance.

“I am very excited to have qualified in the semis. Our Heat was tough because I was running against the best like Jamaican. I am looking forward to run a good race later in the day,” Mathew said.

Up next was the Boys 1500m and indeed the two Kenyan representatives did not disappoint with Dominic Kipkemboi running a fantastic race to automatically sail through in a fastest time of 3:48.93.

Kipkemboi, 16-year-old led from front to finish but limped towards the finish line after pulling a hamstring.

“I have a small injury but I will be fine. This was a tough race but I thank God I managed to win. The semis will not be easy since I will be facing my compatriot Manag’oi,” Kipkemboi stated.

Algerian Qussama Cherrad finished second in 3:48.93 ahead of Ethiopian Abebe Dessassa who was third in 3:49.58 while Ugandan Hosea Kiplagat was the last qualifier in fourth place in a time of 3:56.44.

The second Heat saw the younger brother of 1500m World Silver medallist Elijah Manang’oi, George Meitamei dominate to win in 3:55:00.

“I am always looking to follow the footsteps of my brother Elijah, he always inspires me. The race was good and I am looking forward to the final, I am ready to take on Kipkemboi,” Meitamei stated.

The Boys 1500m final will be held on Friday.

Mary Moraa competing at IAAF U18 100m.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In the Girls 400m, Mary Moraa stormed to victory despite delaying off the blocks in lane three to automatically qualify in a Personal Best of 54.07 ahead of Brazilian Giovana Rosalia Dos Santos who also clocked a Personal Best of 54.29 while Serbian Katarina Sekulic was third in 54.86.

“I was fearing the race when I first entered the Stadium, but after the bend I gained the confidence to go all the way and win. I am confinent now and I don’t fear the Jamaicans,” Moraa said.

Kenya will be looking forward to strike her first gold tonight in the Girls 3000m.

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England’s all-time top scorer Wayne Rooney enjoys the reception.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, Jul 12- Everton left-back Leighton Baines has said the team is excited to face record 15-time Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia on Thursday at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam as part of their pre-season training.

Baines, an English international however says they will be heading into the match blind of their opponents as they haven’t had a glimpse of what they have to offer, but nonetheless expects a thrilling match from them.

“We haven’t had much to know about them because we have only been back in training for a week now. We have a training session tonight and it will be mostly about fitness and getting to prepare for the match,” Baines told Capital Sport shortly after arriving at their residence in upmarket Dar es Salaam.

He adds that it will be a great opportunity for the team to get to gel in with the new players as well as build up momentum towards the start of their English Premier League campaign next month.

The Everton team enjoying their reception in Dar es Salaam.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Everton have brought with them several of their new signings including star England striker Wayne Rooney, Former Ajax captain Davy Klaasen and defender Michael Keane. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and striker Sandro Ramires who have also been signed this summer did not travel.

“This is a perfect opportunity to get started and being early enough in pre-season it’s a great opportunity for the team because we have new players and we haven’t trained together. Getting a good game such as tomorrow’s would be good,” Baines added.

The defender has called on fans to throng the stadium and enjoy the game, promising the Blues will give in a good account of themselves.

The team was handed a superb reception straight from the Julius Nyerere International Airport where curious onlookers and fans thronged, but they spent very limited time there due to heightened security as the airport was dealing with three incoming foreign presidents.

Everton head coach Ronald Koeman walks into the team’s residence in Dar es Salaam after arriving.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

With a convoy complete with outriders, the team made its way to upmarket Tanzania in Masaka where they will reside for the next two days.

Upon arrival at their hotel, the team was treated to a rousing welcome complete with Maasai dancers on the beachfront and the players, led by head coach Ronald Koeman showed their excitement with unending smiles while capturing the moments on their smart phones.

Striker Rooney, clearly the attraction of the Everton side clutched in between his new teammates, smiling away every moment of the dance and chuckling in excitement at the screams.

Aaron Lennon, fresh from rehabilitation also looked in high spirits constantly sharing jokes with defender Ashley Williams as they enjoyed the reception.

Aaron lennon and Shley Williams enjoy the maasai dances.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

“It’s a very warm welcome and the lads are very excited. This is nothing we see at home and we are excited to be here and to see warm and welcoming people,” Baines said.

A few Congolese fans residing in Tanzania made their way to the hotel and lined up at the entrance singing praises to their star player Yannick Bolasie. The forward will however not be on the pitch as he is still undergoing rehabilitation from a serious knee ligament injury picked up last season.

The team will head into CSR activities at the Uhuru Primary in Kariakoo on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam as well as a soccer clinic at the Uhuru Stadium, outside the National Stadium.

The team will have its first training session at the match venue on Wednesday evening.

Yannick Bolasie was also part of the Everton contingent despite currently rehabilitating from injury.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Everton travelling squad:

Maarten Stekelenburg, Mateusz Hewelt, Chris Renshaw, Tom Davies, Phil Jagielka, Ashley Williams, Callum Connolly, Jonjoe Kenny, Michael Keane, Muhamed Besic, Leighton Baines, Morgan Schneiderlin, James McCarthy, Davy Klaassen, Gareth Barry, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Joe Williams, Kieran Dowell, Kevin Mirallas, Wayne Rooney, Aaron Lennon, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Ademola Lookman, Matthew Pennington, Yannick Bolasie.

-Timothy Olobulu is reporting from Dar es Salaam-

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First Lady Margaret Kenyatta with great athletics legends at Kasarani Stadium.PHOTO/PSCU

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 12 – Elderly track and field veterans who rocketed Kenya to global stardom and fame since 1954 on Wednesday met with First Lady Margaret Kenyatta at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, where the IAAF World U18 Championships officially got underway.

The 185 veterans, all donned in black track-suits, greeted the First Lady at the Kasarani where President Uhuru Kenyatta officially opened the iconic global track and field extravaganza that will continue for the next four days.

The veterans included Nyandika Mayoro who in 1954 represented Kenya in Vancouver, Canada in the country’s first international outing. Mzee Nyandika was among the veterans who attended today’s ceremonies where he was personally recognized by President Kenyatta.

First Lady with Mzee Nyandika Mayioro.PHOTO/PSCU

The heroes were led to Kasarani by their team leader, Julius Kariuki, the 1988 Olympic Gold Medalist in Steeple Chase,  Seoul, South Korea.

According to Barnabas Kinyor, the 400 metres Bronze Medalist during the Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada, the heroes wanted to pass a message to the First Lady seeking government assistance to form an association of veterans.

“We want to pass a message to the government through our First Lady to raise several issues including assistance to form a Veterans Association,” said Kinyor.

He said some of the veterans were suffering in abject poverty, even after winning medals and bringing glory to the country in their hey-days.

-First Lady dry run-

First Lady with current legend David Rudisha (left) and Tegla Lourope (right) at Kasarani.PHOTO/PSCU

After meeting with the veterans, the First Lady walked into the  parked stadium flanked by some elite athletes including  800m world record holder and two-time Olympic champion David Rudisha, Javelin star Julius Yego and retired legend Tegla Lorupe where she greeted  thousands of sporting enthusiasts, athletes  and their officials drawn from 131 countries.

After walking for several metres, the First lady and her team broke into running as the crowds excitedly applauded in acknowledgement and approval.

The First Lady is associated with running Half Marathons both locally and abroad, aimed at raised funds for the Beyond Zero initiative.

First Lady at Kasarani with legends.PHOTO/PSCU

The stadium erupted into further and prolonged excitement and approval from the crowds when President Kenyatta received the First Lady at the main dias where she ended her short race.

Earlier, 300 pupils from Daniel Komboni, Muthaiga and Parklands primary schools, all donning red track suits associated with Kenya, entered the stadium waiving flags representing all the countries participating in the biennial games.

The children went ahead of form a ring around the main competition arena before entertainment groups including drummers and  sarakasi dancers among others rocked the stadium  with a series of percussions , dance and some acrobatics- showcasing the best of culture and art from Kenya.

President Uhuru Kenyatta makes his remarks during the official opening of the IAAF World U-18 Championships Nairobi 2017. Also present were First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and the President of the IAAF Sebastian Coe. PHOTO/PSCU

After the opening ceremonies of the event, the President and the First Lady remained in the main competition arena to watch several track competitions including the competitive 3,000 metres. They were later joined by Deputy President William Ruto.

Despite a sudden downpour that soaked the field and the tracks, the competitions  and training  sessions went on unhindered.

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Kenya’s Emmaculate Chepkirui celebrationg after winning siver at the IAAF World U18 Championships at Kasarani.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, July 12 – Cheered by home fans, Team Kenya opened her IAAF World U18 Championships medal account with silver thanks to Emmaculate Chepkirui in the Girls 3000m on Day One at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani on Wednesday night.

Running under rainy conditions, the rivalry between Kenya and Ethiopia was witnessed in the last race of the day that saw Abersh Minsewo out kick Chepkirui on the home stretch to take gold in 9:24.62.

Chepkirui, who did all her best to give Kenya a golden start settled for silver in 9:24.69 ahead of another Ethiopian Yitayish Mekonene who grabbed bronze in 9:28.46. The only other Kenyan in the race Beatrice Chebet was fourth in 9:33.26.

“I feel very good for winning this silver medal and I am very happy though I wanted to break Mercy Cherono’s record but wasn’t possible,” Chepkirui, who will now be shifting her attention to World Junior Championships, said.

“The rain did not affect me though the fault start was not good. I ran from behind in the opening three rounds because I wanted to save the finishing kick since I knew Ethiopians are good at that,” the silver medallist at 2016 Bydgoszcz World Junior Championships noted.

Emmaculate Chepkirui leading. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The race watched at the VIP dias by President Uhuru Kenyatta, First Lady Margaret and IAAF President Sebastian Coe, had tension even before it started and it was evidently seen by the three fault starts, something that is very rare.

Being the first international event for all the runners, it was a game of sizing each other with Ethiopian Mekonene controlling the slow pace as Chebet, who has a Personal Best of 9:07.0 reading the race from the middle.

The second lap saw Chebet up her game though it seemed early, to run side-by-side alongside Mekonene as Ugandan Sarah Chelangat was third to pile up the pressure while Chepkirui was just behind her.

Ethiopia Abersh Minsewo wins 3000m.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The race shaped up in the fifth lap though it was still tight with the usual culprits in the leading pack that included two Kenyans, two Ethiopians and one Ugandan.

Ugandan Chelangat could not keep up the pace as she dropped towards the bell to leave the showdown to the perennial rivals Kenya and Ethiopia. It is at this moment that Chepkirui broke up but Abersh could not let her go.

The turning point was at the back straight when both athletes ran neck-to-neck but at the home straight the Ethiopian had the finishing kick to take the race and give her country the first gold medal in the five-day Championships that ends on Sunday.

-Other results-

Japheth Toroitich celebrating after winning Boys 800m Heats.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In the Boys 800m, all the two Kenyans sailed to Thursday’s semi-final.

Noah Kiprono was the first to automatically qualify after finishing third in Heat 2, returning 1:54.10 while Japheth Kibiwott clocked 1:53.91 to win Heat 4 and automatically qualify.

Kiprono, 17-year-old will run in lane 3 in the first semi-final while Kibiwott is placed in lane 5 in the second semi.

In the Girls 100m first round, Kenya’s Beatrice Onyango found the going tough to be eliminated after finishing second last in her Personal Best of 12.50.

In the corresponding men’s race, it was the end of the road for Kenyan Elijah Okwane who bowed out in the semis despite improving his Personal Best to 10.74.

Thursday’s fixture will see Stanley Waithaka and Edward Zakayo carry the Kenya flag in the Boys 3000m heats, Leah Jeruto and Irene Akinyi battle it out in the Girls 400m Hurdles Heats while Lydia Jeruto and Jackline wambui compete in Girls 800m Heats.

Musyoka Mwema will be looking to make history as the first Kenyan in the Championships to ever win a medal outside athletics when he competes in the Boys Long Jump final.

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President Uhuru Kenyatta greeting IAAF President Sebastian Coe at the IAAF World U18 Championships opening Ceremony.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 12 – President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday announced free entrance to fans wishing to watch the IAAF World U18 Championships that got underway at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani.

Kenyatta was speaking after officially opening the five-day global event that saw Kenya open her medal account with silver in the Girls 3000m that was won by Emmaculate Chepkirui.

The Head of State assured that Kenya is very secure to citizens and all visiting athletes from the131 nations participating in the event.

“I wish to assure you that Kenya is a secure and peaceful country and continues to embrace democratic ideals as we progress in building our nation,” said the President at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani where he opened the extravaganza.

President Uhuru Kenyatta greeting IAAF LOC boss Mwangi Muthee during the opening ceremony.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The President also assured the International sporting fraternity of Kenya’s commitment to ethical, clean and fair sports competition.

“My administration fully supports the fight against unfair sporting practices as part of developing this industry,” said the Head of State as he announced free entry to the games for the remainder of the period.

The Championships bring together over 2000 athletes and sports managers from 131 countries. The First Lady Margaret Kenyatta, who was present, is the patron of the IAAF championships, Kenya Chapter.

President Kenyatta described the competition as a special occasion for the people, saying sports occupies a unique place in the Kenyan society, a country recognized globally for producing some of the greatest heroes in athletics.

Some of Kenya’s elite athletes including 800m world record holder and two-time Olympic Champion David Rudisha as well as Javelin star Julius Yego attended the colorful opening ceremony.

President Uhuru Kenyatta converses with the President of the IAAF boss Sebastian Coe during the official opening of the IAAF World U-18 Championships Nairobi 2017.

Kenyatta, who was later joined by Deputy President William Ruto, underlined the importance and centrality of sports in people’s lives.

“Sports make our bodies strong, strengthens collaboration, builds discipline and also plays an important role in international relations,” The President told the excited crowds.

The Head of State said Sports provides people with a unique opportunity to stand as one irrespective of geography, language and creed.

“This event provides a unique platform to develop new talent and future champions.”

President Uhuru Kenyatta cheering with Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Wario (Sports) and Fred Matiangi on the right (Education)

The President gave a history of the various key International Championships where Kenyan athletes had participated in starting with the 1954 Vancouver, Canada Athletics where veteran Nyandika Mayoro, who was present, took part.

This was followed by the first Olympic Games for Kenya in 1956 in Melbourne, Australia.

“In 1964, as a young and newly independent nation, Kenya won her first medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games, through Mzee Wilson Kiprugut.”

He said the country’s phenomenal winning tradition culminated in Kenya’s best Olympic performance during the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Jenairo, Brazil, where its champions brought home a total of 13 medals, emerging in second position only to the USA.

Police Band perfoming at the IAAF World U18 opening Ceremony. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

“During the 2015 World U18 event held in Cali, Colombia young Kenyans hauled another 13 medals emerging in position two, again in second position after the United States. These are examples of our senior and junior athletics teams’ tradition of exemplary performance in elite global competitions over the years”, he added

The President said Kenya’s development strategy identifies sports as a major driver of nurturing talent.

“We are committed to developing sports as a fully-fledged industry as part of our broader strategy for growing our economy and creating jobs for our youth.”

The President said Kenya has been developing the critical sports and games infrastructure, as the country looks forward to hosting many and bigger championships in the future.

He asked the visitors not to hurry back home when the games are over but find time to sample Kenya’s cuisine, culture and enjoy its hospitality.

President Uhuru Kenyatta with First Lady at Kasarani during the IAAF World U18 Championships.

President Kenyatta thanked the IAAF for giving Kenya the opportunity to host the biennial event observing that Kenya is the second African country to host the event after Morocco in 2005.

Kenya is further honored to host the 10th and last edition of the WU-18 youth championships.

The Head of State led Kenyans in observing a moment of silence for departed Cabinet Secretary for Interior, coordination and National Government Maj. Gen (Rtd) Joseph Nkaissery who played a key role during the preparations for the games.

IAAF President Lord Sebastian Coe, and Local Organizing Committee (LOC) chairman Lt-Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei also addressed the ceremony.

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Congolese Yannick Bolasie enjoys a chat with Senegalese midfielder Idrissa Gueye and England Under-20 starlet Olamola Lookman during the team’s tour at teh Uhuru Primary School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.photo/ Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 12- Everton FC’s Congolese winger Yannick Bolasie believes it is just a matter of time before Europe’s top leagues are graced with more African stars, saying the standard of the game in the continent has been on the trajectory over the past few years.

Bolasie, speaking to Capital Sport on Wednesday afternoon after Everton touched down in Tanzania for a friendly match against Kenya’s Gor Mahia believes that the hard work put in by African players will not go unnoticed.

“Definitely in the coming years, we will have big players from Africa. Probably not even in my generation but probably in the next five years, we will have more stars because the foundation is being built slowly. The good thing is they are now emerging every day,” the winger said.

He adds that African footballers are now getting more experienced with handling life on the fast lane in Europe and they are adapting to better and most recent skills and techniques, something that has began to give them an edge.

Yannick Bolasie with left back Leighton baines during the team’s tour at teh Uhuru Primary School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on July 12.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

He has also challenged current players to instill the same experience they are getting to younger players back at home.

“For me when I have to go back to Congo I have to instill in them that spirit and show them they can also make it, be an example and a shining light to them. We can open up more doors,” he noted.

Bolasie has had a tough last eight months as he has been out after picking up a serious cruciate knee ligament injury during Everton’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United last December and has described that period as one of the toughest.

“To be honest it has been very difficult but I am happy that I am where I am today. Sometimes I feel sad because I feel I would have made a difference in the team if I was there and maybe we would have finished in a better position,” Bolasie narrates.

“But now, that is behind my back. I am working hard on my rehab and possible I will be back to action in three months. It is still a long way to go but looking back at where I have come from, I am happy. It is unfortunate that I will miss the world Cup qualifiers but coming back, I will be a stronger player,” added the Congolese.

Yannick Bolasie with Senegalese international Idrissa Gana Gueye and England Under-20 starlet Olamola Lookman during the team’s tour at the Uhuru Primary School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on July 12.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Meanwhile, Bolasie is confident Everton can cope without Romelu Lukaku who has left to join Manchester United while at the same time tipping one of his best friends to succeed with Jose Mourinho’s men just like he did with Everton last season.

“I am 100 percent sure that he will do well. I mean his mentality and approach is very positive. I am around him most of the time and we talk and I know he is looking forward to the challenge and I know he will work hard to achieve big things.”

Lukaku’s departure was met with a high profile arrival, Wayne Rooney moving the opposite direction to join his boyhood club after 17 years. Bolasie believes the arrival of Rooney plus a host of other new boys is testament enough of Everton’s ambition this season.

“Last season we finished seventh and now we expect to do better with the players we have brought into the team. Personally I hope I can give the best performance when I come back from injury,” he says.

On Rooney; “We know Rooney and his abilities and I am looking forward to playing alongside him. When you play together with a player who has the ability of picking you out with ease then it makes things better. Time and again when I am playing I always feel like I have to go up against two people but with someone like Rooney who can hit you a one-time pass, it becomes quite interesting.”

He has been included in Ronald Koeman’s squad of the first ever Everton team to come to Africa for pre-season and that for him is a great thing.

Senegalese international Idrissa Gana Gueye plays blind-fold roll ball during the team’s tour at the Uhuru Primary School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on July 12.PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Bolasie as well as Senegalese international Idrissa Gana Gueye, English Under-20 starlet Olamola Lookman and left back Leighton Baines spent their first day in Tanzania with disabled kids from the Uhuru Primary School in Dar es Salaam.

They not only took time to mingle with the overjoyed kids but also get to know them and had an opportunity to play blind roll ball with the school team.

“It is awesome and I think it makes me feel great. The support we have had here is incredible and I think this will make me want to go back and work harder because now I know I represent the continent and I want to do well for Africa,” the midfielder added.

-Timothy Olobulu is reporting from Dar-

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Kenya’s Samson Muniafu evades an attempted tackle by Germany’s Ben Ellerman in an international test match at the RFUEA ground on May 27, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 13 – Kenya Simbas head coach Jerome Paarwater has recalled Simon Muniafu to the starting line-up as he unveiled the team that will face Senegal in their third round Africa Gold Cup match on Saturday at the RFUEA Grounds.

The Impala Saracens lock missed last weekend’s 100-10 demolition over Tunisia after sustaining a knock in the team’s Gold Cup opener against Uganda three weeks ago.

He will partner with skiper Wilson Kopondo in the second row while George Nyambua drops to the bench as Oliver Mang’eni remains unavailable for this fixture.

Leo Seje retains his place at inside center, maintaining his midfield partnership with David Ambunya as Paarwater maintains a largely unchanged side that will be out to register a second win on the trot in this encounter that kicks off at 2.00pm.

Meanwhile, Senegal are expected to arrive in Nairobi on Thursday night.

The team currently sits fifth on the six team log with a single point obtained in the 16-17 home loss to Uganda on Saturday 1 July 2017.  They later fell to a 95-0 loss away to Namibia last weekend.

Key players for the Senegalese include the veteran Steve Sargos,  Folliot Aldric who leads their team’s scoring with 22 points in this tournament coming off 2 conversions and 6 penalties, Moussa Barry and Traore Saido.

Simbas squad:

15.Tony Onyango, 14. Darwin Mukidza, 13. David Ambunya, 12. Leo Seje, 11. Jacob Ojee, 10. Isaac Adimo, 9. Samson Onsomu, 1. Moses Amusala, 2. Peter Karia, 3. Dennis Karani, 4. Wilson Kopondo (captain), 5. Simon Muniafu, 6. Eric Kereh, 7. Davis Chenge, 8. Joshua ChisangaReplacements16. Philip Ikambili, 17.Oscar Simiyu, 18. Curtis Lilako, 19. George Nyambua, 20. Martin Owila, 21. Lyle Asiligwa, 22. Kenny Andola, 23. Dennis Muhanji.

Management: Jerome Paarwater (Head Coach), Dominique Habimana (Forwards Coach), Charles Ngovi (Backs Coach), Richard Ochieng (S&C Coach), Chris Makachia (Physio), Simiyu Wangila (Team Manager).

-By Kenya Rugby Union Website–

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Edwin Zakayo celebrating after winning the Boys 3000m semi on Thursday during the IAAF World U18 Championships at Kasarani Stadium.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 13 – Since its inaugural edition in Bydgoszcz 1999, Kenya has dominated the Boys 3000m and this year’s youngsters Stanley Waithaka and Edward Zakayo have vowed to see the nation retain the title on Sunday when curtains in the IAAF World U18 Championships come down.

The two Kenyans automatically qualified for the finals after running a fantastic race on Thursday with Zakayo leading from start to finish to win the second semi in 8:04.85 while Waithaka sailed through in second place in a fastest time of 7:59.54 in the first semi.

Kenya has only missed the gold twice, in 2005 when Bernard Muinde finished seventh and in the unforgettable 2013 when Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha condemned the Kenyan duo of Vedic Kipkoech and Alexander Mutiso to silver and bronze respectively.

However, on form Waithaka and Zakayo have confidence that come on Sunday the two Ethiopians; Selemon Barega and Milkesa Mengesha will see dust.

Stanley Mburu Waithaka competing in Boys 3000m semis.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Waithaka, who has a Personal Best of 7:56.0 finished second behind Ethiopian Selemon who controlled the race from start to finish, winning in a Personal Best of 7:55.73.

“There is no pressure though the race was tough. I just wanted to get into the final and the way I have ran I will make it in the final. I had the capability of winning the race but I decided to run behind the Ethiopian to study the race,” Waithaka, who was inspired by her sister to run, said after the race.

With their Girls counterparts settling for silver on the opening day courtesy of Emmaculate Chepkirui, Waithaka said they will make it up with a 1-2 finish.

“The gold and silver is for Kenya, that is a sure bet. I will improve on my last lap especially in the last curve. I want to venture into 5000m when I graduate to seniors and bring back the gold that has been going to Britain,” The Form Four Student from Ndaragua asserted.

Edward Zakayo leading in Boys 3000m semis.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

On the other hand, Zakayo, a Form Three student from Kapsait Secondary School, says their strategy as Team Kenya in the Boys 3000m race is to start the race with a high pace to burn the Ethiopians .

“I decided to open up from start because if you delay the Ethiopians will defeat you in the final kick so at 800m, I decided to kick. I have been preparing for this competition since last year so I am seeing Team Kenya winning silver and gold. I told Waithaka to just be number two and that’s what he did,” Zakayo, born in Narok but hails from Elgeyo Marakwet told Capital Sports.

“We have a strategy for the final where I have agreed with Waithaka he start from the front and take the pace fast for us to win both gold and silver.”

Kenya has managed to win 1-2 in 2007, 2009, 2011and in the last edition in 2015 when Richard Yator led Davis Kiplagat to the podium.

Wiliam Malel is the current World Record holder in a time of 7:40.10 that he set in Lille, France in 2011.

-Other results of Day 2-

Jackline Wambui winning the Girls 800m Heats.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In other results held in Day 2, both Kenyan Girls qualified for the 800m semis to run on Friday.

Lydia Jeruto opened the way in the first Heat, crossing the line in 2:10.37 ahead of Chaimae Ismaili of Morocco (2:13.15) while Romania’s Andrea-Raissa Hojda (2:14.42) was the last automatic qualifier.

The third Heat was even more interesting when Jackline Wambui electrified the Kasarani Stadium to win 2:08.24, the fastest race of the Four Heats. Second was Hirut Meshesha from Ethiopis in 2:09.74 while Klara Lukan from Slovakia also sailed through in third place (2:11.66).

Being the quickest race, the Heat produced the two fastest losers in Tugba Toptas from Turkey and Relaska Dauti from Albania.

It was a bad outing for the sprinters that will see Kenya have no representative in the Girls Hurdles with Leah Jeruto finishing third in a Personal Best of 1:01.11while Irene Akinyi trailed her Heat to finish in 1:04.31.

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Team Kenya Captain for IAAF World U18 Championships David Saruni holding his head after finishing the race. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 13 – Team Kenya captain for IAAF World U18 Championships David Saruni has been disqualified for lane violation, moments after storming to victory in the Boys 400m Hurdles semis as the global competition entered Day Two at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani.

Running in lane three, Saruni had wowed the crowd to give his all and cross the line in a Personal Best but celebrations was cut short when judges ruled the Kenyan had violated IAAF Rule 163.3 (a).

“In all races run in lanes, each athlete shall keep within his allocated lane from start to finish. This shall also apply to any portion of a race run in lanes,” The Rule further says.

Speaking to Capital Sport, Team Kenya head coach Gikonyo Kariuki said after reviewing the video, Saruni was found guilty for stepping outside the lane thrice.

“A rule is a rule, he (Saruni) stepped inside the lane thrice when he was at the corner, so he slowed other competitor’s speed and that’s an infringement that results to disqualification,” Kariuki said.

David Saruni on his way to winning the Boys 400m H semi.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Earlier on after winning the race Saruni had said;  “I am happy to win this race, my main aim is to make it into the finals and I have managed. Let me rest first I will speak later,” Saruni told journalists after the race.

Brazilian Alison Brendom dos Santos who had finished second was awarded the winner of semi-final 3 in 52.95 to storm the final alongside French Fabien Laroppe who returned a Personal Best of 53.06.

Kenya’s Moitalel Mpoke competing at IAAF World U18 Championships.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

Kenya will now be represented in the Saturday final by Moitalel Mpoke Naadokila who automatically qualified in the first semi-final after running a Personal Best of 52.40 behind winner Rovane Williams of Jamaica who clocked 51.94.

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