Josphat Bett wins the fourth edition of Beyond Zero Half Marathon. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 – David Bett and Brillian Kipkoech braved stiff competition to clinch the respective men’s and women’s 21km title of the Beyond Zero Marathon graced by First Lady Margaret Kenyatta in the capital city on Sunday morning.
Both winners walked home with Sh250,000 each while runners-up received Sh125,000 as third placed were awarded Sh75,000.
In the men’s race, Bett finished first in 01:01:34 beating Philemon Rono in one second while Simon Kirui was third in 01:01:40.
Brillian Kipkoech won the women’s 21km race. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
The corresponding women’s category saw Kipkoech who cut the tape in 1:07:02 floor Evelyn Chirchir who was second 1:07:03 as Bornes Kitur completed the podium in 1:07:23.
In the 10km where the First Lady competed, Vincent Ng’etich won the men’s event ahead of Alexander Mutiso while Shadrack Koech was third.
In the women’s race, Margaret Chelimo dominated the race after beating Irene Kimais while Monica Ngige came third.
Deputy President William Ruto with Sports CS Amina Mohammed. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
Deputy President William Ruto also competed in the men’s 21km managing to finish the race alongside Central Bank Governor Patrick Njoroge.
Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia Hailemariam Desalegn flagged off the race that saw over 25,000 participants take part in the race.
Running in fairly warm weather conditions, the elite athletes were flagged off first at 6am outside Nyayo National Stadium on Mombasa Road then they sped off University way, passing through Kenyatta Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue before turning at Bunyala Road go towards Uniliver Kenya, Lusaka Road before turning at Capital Center and back to finish inside the Nyayo National Stadium.
Paralympian Henry Wanyoike competed in the visually impaired category. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
This year’s race also welcomed the participation of visually impaired with former world champion legendary Henry Wanyoike taking part.
First Lady Margaret Kenyatta finished the 10km of the fourth edition of the Beyond Zero Marathon at Nyayo StadiumMarch 10, 2019. Phoyo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 – First Lady Margaret Kenyatta finished the 10km race in a well-attended fourth edition of the Beyond Zero Marathon held on Sunday in Nairobi.
The first Lady was received by President Uhuru Kenyatta at the finish line cheered by the participants who competed in the event that seeks to raise money to eliminate preventable maternal and infant deaths.
Newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Culture and Heritage Amb. Amina Mohammed flagged off the 10km race.
The First Lady was accompanied by former First Lady of Ethiopia, Roman Tesfaye who also competed in the 10km race that majority participated in.
Speaking after finishing the race the First Lady dedicate the day to all Kenyans, and urged everyone to take charge of their lives through healthy lifestyle choices.
“We have contributed to prevention of thousands of mothers and babies dying from lack of health care and medicines. We purchased and delivered mobile clinics in all 47 counties and we have began medical safari to address specific medical concerns,” The First Lady addressed.
“We have contributed to the wide spread awareness around health awareness facing women, children and vulnerable communities. Despite the progress we have made our work is not yet done, I upload all elite athletes and you are an inspiration to all of us and especially the Paralympians who competed today, using the this race as training ahead of next year’s international meet,” She added.
President Kenyatta on his part announced that starting this year all the national teams will be fully funded by the government.
“This year I can proudly say that Sports, Culture and Arts will truly take center stage in our Republic. I can say with certainty that this year Harambee Stars will not be begging or borrowing… we will fund them to ensure Harambee Stars becomes a success, I want to assure you that our rugby teams will be fully sponsored by the government this year,” the President assured.
MANCHESTER, United Kingdom, Mar 9 – Pep Guardiola was sorry if Manchester City were given a helping hand on their way to a 3-1 victory over Watford, but insisted his side were well worthy of the win that opened up a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League.
City were labouring to break down the massed ranks of Watford’s defence, until Raheem Sterling’s controversial 46th minute goal changed everything.
Sterling was initially flagged for offside as his effort looped over goalkeeper Ben Foster, but the decision was overturned by referee Paul Tierney following a close discussion with his assistant referee.
Sterling was in an offside position as he latched onto Sergio Aguero’s lay-off from Ilkay Gundogan’s pass, but the ball was kicked onto him by defender Daryl Janmaat, and the Dutchman’s interference was enough to convince Tierney that Sterling should be ruled onside.
Sterling then went onto to complete a hat-trick as City pilled the pressure on second-placed Liverpool, who host Burnley at Anfield tomorrow.
Guardiola wished the balance of the game had not hinged on such a moment, and backed the introduction of VAR in the Premier League next season despite complaints over its use in the Champions League this week.
“If the first goal is offside, I am sorry,” said the City manager.
“There should be an easy solution and next season there will be. With VAR, that will not be a problem, it will be fairer.
“At the beginning of the season, Manchester City voted to install VAR. Some clubs did not accept it. Hopefully next season like in other countries in Europe we can install it.
“I am so sorry and I apologise to Javi (Gracia) and to Watford if the first goal is offside, but we were incredible.
“We made an incredible game, we played well in the first-half and had only one shot on target – their goal – against us.”
However, Watford manager Gracia was angered by a call which fundamentally altered the course of the game.
“Today, in my opinion, it is clear,” he said.
“At the moment Aguero touched the ball Sterling is in an offside position, a clear offside position, maybe two metres.
“After that, he is in an offside position and he has influence as well because he goes to the ball. After that, it is true the defender touches the ball, but he touches it because Sterling is close to him and is going to press him.”
– Sterling ‘can do better’ –
Before the break, the champions had struggled to create chances against the massed ranks in defence from Watford, who despite making seven changes, made life very difficult for their hosts.
Goalkeeper Ben Foster had made saves from David Silva and Aguero, but the opening half was one of frustration on the pitch and in the stands as City fans grew restless.
Sterling’s first goal broke the shackles and within 13 minutes, he had completed his hat-trick to secure all three points and make it 18 goals in all competitions for City this season.
His second was a tap-in from little more than two yards out after good work from David Silva and Riyad Mahrez and then he grabbed his third when he cut inside his marker and beat Foster with a neat finish.
Guardiola, though, was not gushing in his praise of the England winger.
“The three goals were fantastic but he can do better,” he added.
“He didn’t help us a lot defensively in the first half and he gave the ball away a lot.”
Watford’s first shot on target in the 66th minute produced their goal as substitutes Troy Deeney and Gerard Deulofeu each combined with their first touches as the Spaniard turned home the forward’s lay-off.
But it was no more than a consolation and City now turn their attention towards the Champions League and the FA Cup this week in their quest for a quadruple of trophies as Premier League matters take a back seat for the next three weeks.
“I went down there as a young professional in 1995 playing on the Challenge Tour and, having done some good work over the winter, I was really looking forward to the season and that got me off to a really good start.”
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 – 15-time European Tour Champion and immediate former Ryder Cup Captain, Thomas Bjorn, 2016 winner of the Kenya Open Golf Championship, Sebastian Soderberg and 2015 winner of the Kenya Open Golf Championship Haydn Porteous have expressed excitement to be returning to Kenya to play at the 2019 Magical Kenya Golf Championship.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Qatar Masters, Bjorn, who will be making his return to Kenya 24 years after he first played at the tournament, said he looks forward to reliving the memories of Kenya and lauded the efforts which have been put in place to elevate the tournament to the European Tour.
“I haven’t been there since 1995 and I enjoyed it back then, so it is going to be great to come back to see what it is like now. They have put a lot of time and effort into getting this tournament into being a regular Tour event so, I believe It’s going to be fun and interesting. I am excited to going to the Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship,” he said.
Bjorn finished tied in second at the 1995 Kenya Open Golf Championship, missing the top spot by five strokes to Englishman James Lee, but went ahead to win four other events on the Challenge Tour calendar that year to emerge The Challenge Tour Rankings Champion.
Remarking on his memories of Kenya, Bjorn said that he appreciates the role the Kenya Open Golf Championship played in shaping his budding career.
“I went down there as a young professional in 1995 playing on the Challenge Tour and, having done some good work over the winter, I was really looking forward to the season and that got me off to a really good start. Obviously, I came up short, but it set me up for the rest of the season to win the Challenge Tour. It’s a place I have always wanted to go back to and now we are going back.”
“It’s been a while since I have played in my backyard and I have some fun memories since I recorded my first win as a pro in Kenya. To go back there would just be magical and I hope I can do something like I did last time.”
Commenting on his return to the Kenya Open, Swede Sebastian Soderberg said:
“The Kenya Open means a lot to me as it was my first Challenge Tour victory, so I am looking forward to come back and I think it’s going to be a lot of fun. I haven’t been at the Karen Country Club in a while so I am looking forward to it. For some reason, I have always played well in Kenya so I am looking to a great tournament.”
Soderberg has played at the Kenya Open Golf Championship for four consecutive years since 2015, winning it in 2016 and finishing in sixth last year.
Remarking on his return to Kenya for the Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship, South African pro golfer, Haydn Porteous, said:
“It’s been a while since I have played in my backyard and I have some fun memories since I recorded my first win as a pro in Kenya. To go back there would just be magical and I hope I can do something like I did last time.”
He added:
“The first time I went to Kenya, I was pleasantly surprised at the number of people who turned up to watch golf, and now that the tournament is part of the European, I expect even more people to turn up for the tournament.”
Haydn has taken part in the Kenya Open Golf Championship in two occasions; 2014 and 2015. He finished a decent 48th in 2014 before winning the championship the following year.
The 2019 Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship tees off at the Karen Country Club on Thursday the 14th of March and will be preceded by PRO-AM tournament on Wednesday the 13th. Tickets for the tournament can be purchased via the website www.kenyaopen.golf.
KBL Managing Director Jane Karuku (L) hands over a sponsorship cheque to KOGL Director Joe Wangai (R), as KGU Vice chair Anthony Murage looks on
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 – Johnnie Walker has announced that it will award the first golfer who holes out in one at the 2019 Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship at the Karen Country Club from March 14-17.
The lucky golfer will receive a bottle of Johnnie Walker Odyssey.
The Johnnie Walker Hole-In-One prize will be on offer at the Par-3, 16th hole (current 7th) at the Karen Country Club.
Making the announcement, Kenya Breweries Limited Managing Director, Mrs. Jane Karuku expressed the company’s delight in awarding the prize during the Kenya Open; reiterating the company’s support towards the growth of Golf in the country.
“The Kenya Breweries Limited through its Johnnie Walker brand is pleased to announce a Hole-In-one Prize during the 2019 Magical Kenya Open. The first player who holes out in one during the competition will walk away with a prized bottle of Johnnie Walker Odyssey.”
“At KBL, we remain committed to contributing to the growth of sports in Kenya and indeed Johnnie Walker has a rich history of supporting golf locally. The brand recently partnered with the Kenya Open Golf Limited to sponsor the last two legs of the 2018/19 Safari Tour and also sponsored the hole-in-one prize during the tournaments.”
Welcoming the announcement, Kenya Open Golf Championship Finance Director, Joe Wangai, said:
“We are delighted to have our alcoholic beverage partner, Johnnie Walker, also offer a hole-in-one award at the 2019 Magical Kenya Open. It is our belief that we will see players getting out of their comfort zones to take calculated risks, to win the prize, resulting in better scores and increased excitement from the fans.”
The announcement comes days after the giant alcoholic beverage company unveiled a Sh 40 Million Sponsorship of the 2019 Magical Kenya Open.
The championship is set to take place between the 14th and 17th of March 2019, at the Karen Country Club. This will be the first time that the tournament will be played under the prestigious European Tour.
The Walk was in support of the ambition of the Beyond Zero initiative, and its shared goal to eliminate preventable maternal and infant deaths. Photo/SPORT PICHA
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 – A woman gave birth moments after participating in the inaugural Beyond Zero Pregnancy 2km Walk that saw 400 pregnant women take part in the event held in the capital city on Sunday.
The woman who was tackling the 2km course that saw them start outside Nyayo National Stadium along Mombasa Road, started experiencing labour pain and was rushed to Pumwani Hospital where she gave birth to a baby girl that was named Margaret in honor of the First Lady Margaret Kenyatta who is the founder of the Beyond Zero Marathon.
“We are happy with this Walk, I have never seen pregnant women running or Walking for distance but today we have done it and finished. Pregnant women need to do practice and today we have seen three taken to hospital and one of them gave birth and the baby named Margaret after the First Lady,” Asha Wanjiku, who is the coordinator of the pregnant women Walk and also competed, told Capital sport.
“We mobilized pregnant women from 3 to 9 months, others are above and if they feel they can make it then we registered them. It’s a good initiative and we want to thank the Beyond Zero campaign because it has helped reduce maternal and infant deaths,” she added.
A pregnant woman heading to the finish line after successfully completing 2KM Walk at the 2019 Beyond Zero Marathon . Photo/SPORT PICHA
Another participant, Mary Wangari Kirubi from Embakasi East revealed that the Walk has raised awareness to pregnant women about healthy pregnancy and childbirth, giving them access to technology that can potentially save their own lives and the lives of their babies.
“Through this Walk we have noticed that most pregnant women don’t go to clinic or screening. The event was good, and we are happy because we have been neglected, it was a good outing I have done practice,” Alvinza who is five months pregnant narrated.
First Lady Margaret Kenyatta expressed her delight in all the pregnant women wo made it to the Walk.
“We have contributed to prevention of thousands of mothers and babies dying from lack of health care and medicines. We purchased and delivered mobile clinics in all 47 counties and we have begun medical safari to address specific medical concerns. This is why this year Beyond Zero Marathon is dedicated to several course, we dedicate this Marathon to women, mothers, girls to commemorate International Women’s Day,” the First Lady said in her speech.
“Through this Walk we have noticed that most pregnant women don’t go to clinic or screening. The event was good, and we are happy because we have been neglected, it was a good outing I have done practice,” Alvinza who is five months pregnant narrated. Photo/SPORT PICHA
In the Walk, Winfred Karimi emerged the winner after beating Bracksides Nangila who came second while Jane Kemunto completed the podium in third.
Their course saw them tackle Bunyala Road after flag-off at Nairobi Toyota outside Nyayo Stadium, then they turn to the Ministry of Public Works, take Lusaka Road turn before walking inside the Stadium.
The Walk was in support of the ambition of the Beyond Zero initiative, and its shared goal to eliminate preventable maternal and infant deaths.
The Philips Lumify ultrasound was used to carry out screenings at the fun Walk, by bringing technology that will only be available at formal hospitals and clinics to the participants.
FKF President Nick Mwendwa confirmed the sad news in a tweet on Sunday afternoon. Photo/Twitter
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 10 – Hussein Swaleh, a former Football Kenya Federation (FKF) General Secretary is among the 32 Kenyans who died in the early morning Ethiopian Airline plane crash on Sunday.
FKF President Nick Mwendwa confirmed the sad news in a tweet on Sunday afternoon,
“Sad day for football. You were doing what you loved most. Fare thee well my chairman. Until we meet again.”
Sad day for football. You were doing what you loved most. Fare thee well my chairman. Until we meet again. pic.twitter.com/WnOh4c3Pxh
Swaleh was connecting to Nairobi from Alexandria, Egypt where he was the match commissioner in Friday night’s CAF Champions League clash pitting Ismaily and Congolese giants TP Mazembe at the Borg el Aram Stadium.
“According to the itinerary, that was supposed to have been his flight and the general assumption is that he boarded it. We will have to wait for the full manifest from Ethiopian Airlines on who was on board the airplane for us to officially confirm,” a source told Capital Sport on Sunday.
The former Secretary General now turned CAF accredited match commissioner had travelled with the other referees from Cairo and they are reported to have landed safely at the Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa from where all would board planes to their respective countries.
The Ethiopian Airline plane ET 302 had been scheduled to arrive at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 10:30am Sunday morning but according to a statement released by the airline, it lost contact just six minutes after it took off.
It was later officially reported that all 157 on board the plane died on the crash with eye witnesses telling the BBC that the plane which crashed 62km away from the Capital Addis exploded loudly and was engulfed in flames.
Photos emanating from the crush scene show an apocalyptic image of a plane wreckage burnt to ashes.
Hoisted by Captain Andrew Amonde and utility Willy Ambaka, President Uhuru Kenyatta offloads the ball to Humphrey Kayange from Collins Injera’s throw when he hosted the team at State House in 2016/ PHOTO- Timothy Olobulu
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 – President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced that the government will from this year fully fund all the national teams in order to make them successful.
With most of the national teams struggling to sponsor their teams to represent the country in international competitions, the President’s announcement will come as a sigh of relief.
Among the team that is set to first benefit is the national football team Harambee Stars and national rugby teams both the 15s and sevens including the women’s team.
Harambee Stars head coach Sebastien Migne gives instructions to players during first training of 2019 at the School of Monitery Studies. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
Harambee Stars are set to compete at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations to be hosted in Egypt July and the team will need ample preparations with the head coach Sebastian Migne lining up a number of friendlies including pitching camp in France.
For the National Sevens team who are struggling to mint results this season, they are without a sponsor after their deal with Brand Kenya ended. The Simbas on the other hand have been without a sponsor for a while and it could be re membered when they turned to Kenyans with paybill numbers to raise money to enable particplation at World Cup repechage in France.
Kenya Simbas players celebrate after beating Uganda to clinch the Elgon Cup in a match that also doubled up as a Rugby Africa Gold Cup tie at the RFUEA Ground on July 7, 2018. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya
“This year I can proudly say that Sports, Culture and Arts will truly take center stage in our Republic. I can say with certainty that this year Harambee Stars will not be begging or borrowing… we will fund them to ensure Harambee Stars becomes a success, I want to assure you that our rugby teams will be fully sponsored by the government this year,” the President assured.
‘Our netball and all our national teams will be fully sponsored by government this year, but most importantly our shining stars of Kenya who are athletes will never again be wanting for uniform, tickets, our athletes will be sponsored fully by the Government of Kenya,” Kenyatta declared.
Dennis Malombe of Supersolico FC (Left) chase for the ball against Ibrahim Abubakar of Isiolo Young Stars during the Safaricom Chapa Dimba season two, Eastern region finals at Kitui Show grounds, Kitui county. Supersolico won the match after a penalty shoot-out when they won 5-4.
KITUI, Kenya, March 10 – Supersolico from Mwingi and St Mary’s Ndovea from Makueni are the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom Eastern region champions.
St. Mary’s Ndovea came from a goal down to beat Chuka Starlets two goals to one in a hotly contested finals held under the scotching heat at Kitui Showground.
Margaret Mutua scored an equalizer for Ndovea at the 35th minute after Clare Chemutai had put the Starlets ahead in the 2nd minute from the penalty spot. Cecilia Mutungu then scored the winning goal for Ndovea at the 57th minute.
“We are delighted that we have the ticket for the national finals. This has been our greatest wish and we have been working hard as a team to achieve it. We have also won some money which is again a great motivation for the team,” said Margaret Mutua, Captain, St Mary’s Ndovea.
In the boy’s finals, Supersolico from Mwingi emerged victorious after beating Young Boys from Isiolo four goals to three on penalties after the game ended 1 – 1. James Mutua gave Supersolico the lead in the first half before Ibrahim Abdisalan scored the equalizer in the second half making him the top scorer of the Eastern final.
Daisy Chirchir of St. Marys Nduvea (left) runs with the ball past Esther Mumbua of Chuka Starlets (right) during the Safaricom Chapa Dimba season two, Eastern region semi-finals at Kitui Show grounds, Kitui finals at Kitui Show grounds, Kitui county. Chuka Starlets lost the match to St. Marys Nduvea 2-1.
St Mary’s Ndovea and Supersolico received a cash reward of KES 200,000 each and will now represent Eastern region in the national finals scheduled for June 2019 at Kinoru Stadium, Meru County.
“The game was tough but our team stayed focused. We came into this tournament with only one aim- to win and yes we made it. We are glad because our struggles have borne fruits. We are not stopping at this because our eyes are glued to being national champs,” said Mudachi Bernard–Coach Supersolico.
Supersolico and St. Mary’s Ndovea now join Western region’s Bishop Njenga Girls and Lugari Blue Saints as well as Manyatta Boys and Ndhiwa Queens from Nyanza in the quest for national champions’ tittle.
At the grand finale, the winning boys’ and girls’ teams will each walk away with KES 1 million shillings in prize money. An All-star team will also be selected from the 8 regional finals to attend a training camp in Spain during which they will play against local youth sides.
The competition now moves to Eldoret for the Rift regional finals set for 23rd and 24th of March.
Gor Mahia’s Boniface Omondi flies past Zamalek defender Abdallah Saleh during their CAF Confederations Cup match at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani on February 3, 2019. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya
NAIROBI, KENYA, March 10 – Gor Mahia’s hopes of progressing to the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final was dashed after succumbing 4-0 away to Egyptian giants Zamalek on Sunday to drop bottom of group D.
The win propelled Zamalek to the top of the group with eight points while Gor remained on six points after the other Pool match saw Angola’s Petro de Luanda beat Algeria’s NA Hussein Dey 2-0.
This is the second successive defeat on the road for Gor in a span of seven days after losing 1-0 away to NA Hussein Dey.
It was also a sweet revenge for Zamalek who started to group stages on a wrong footing after falling 4-2 to Gor in the opener hosted at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium on February 3.
Zamalek set the ball rolling with an early goal in the 12th minute thanks to Mahmoud Alaa in the 12th minute before Youssef Obama doubled the lead in the 26th minute to hand the North Africans an advantage into the break.
Returning for the last half, Zamalek netted two goals in a space of two minutes with Ferjani Sassi making it 3-0 in the 84th minute before Omar El Said completing the rout.
PARIS, France, Mar 11 – The IAAF said on Monday that it will maintain its ban on Russian athletes over doping that it imposed in 2015, following a council meeting of top officials in Qatar.
Rune Andersen, head of the doping task force for the International Association of Athletics Federations, said two outstanding issues remained — the examination of data received from the Moscow anti-doping lab and the issue of outstanding costs being sought from Russia because of the scandal.
“Two key issues remain outstanding,” said Andersen at a press conference in Doha. “These need to be resolved.”
He also said his task force was looking into claims that coaches from the discredited Russian athletics regime were still involved in the sport which, Andersen said, “run counter to assurances” received from Moscow.
Asked if this latest extension of the ban meant Russian athletes would not be able to compete under the flag at this year’s world championships in Doha in September and October, Andersen said there was still time but conditions “have to be met” by Russia.
A team from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) gained access to the Moscow laboratory at the centre of the scandal in January and officials are working their way through the mass of data recovered.
The IAAF suspended Russia in November 2015 after the eruption of a vast state-sponsored doping scandal.
The decision to keep the ban in place was the 10th time the IAAF has turned down Russia’s appeal for reinstatement, having requested the same assurances when it upheld the ban in December.
The International Olympic Committee lifted their suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee a year ago and WADA reinstated Russia in September.
Russia’s Paralympic ban was lifted in early February.
Although the International Biathlon Federation still excludes Russia, the IAAF is the last of the high-profile international sports bodies to ban athletes from competing under the Russian flag, although many Russians are allowed to compete under a neutral banner.
Tremors from the scandal continue.
A dozen more Russian athletes were suspended on February 1 based on the revelations of the McLaren report on the doping. The 12 included high jumper Ivan Ukhov who was stripped of his 2012 Olympic gold.
Harambee Stars defender David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng signs his shirt term deal with AFC Leopards on March 11, 2019. PHOTO/Courtesy
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 11 – Harambee Stars defender David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng has joined AFC Leopards on a three-month contract till the end of the season with the deal having been signed on Monday afternoon at the club’s offices.
“There were several clubs which had put an offer on the table, but personally, I felt AFC would be the best place for me especially because it is a team I played for before. I am glad to have joined them and I hope I can be a positive addition to the team,” Ochieng said.
He added; “The team has not started the season well but hopefully we can bounce into some good position. They have picked momentum winning the last two games and I hope we can build on that heading in to the remaining games of the second leg.”
The defender who has previously played for Tusker FC will get into work immediately and will travel with the squad to Kakamega where they are scheduled to play Sofapaka in the first match of the second leg on Wednesday evening.
Ochieng will be looking to get back into competitive form as he looks to get back into European football in the summer.
Born on 07/10/1992 ,Ochieng is a Central Defender who has previously played for : IF Brommapojkarna (Sweden), New York Cosmos FC (USA) and Al Tawoon (Saudi Arabia)
All Saints was crowned Best performers winning all but 1 of the 5 categories.
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 11 – Hosts All Saints dominated the 5th edition of the All Saints Cathedral Primary School Nairobi Inter football tournament that went down over the weekend at All Saints Primary in Madaraka.
The hotly contested 7 aside matches saw five schools compete; Riara, Jonathan Gloag, All Saints Cathederal, Peace Junior and St Veronica battling it out in the under 7,9,11 and 13 categories.
The under 13 boys finals between Jonathan Gloag and Peace junior was a mouthwatering clash, ending in a goalless stalemate to force the match head into post-match penalties that saw Peace Junior emerge victorious.
The under 11’s boys was the most competitive in the tournament with All Saints Cathederal winning 1-0 against St Veronica.
All Saints was crowned Best performers winning all but 1 of the 5 categories.
The guest of honour former Harambee Stars player Simon Mulama while presenting medals to the best players said he was pleased to see young talent being showcased and tapped.
BetLion Marketing Director Spenser Okatch (center) unveils Golf Park’s David Wakhu as their brand ambassador
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 11 – Golf Park Pro David Wakhu has signed a deal with African betting firm BetLion as the brand ambassador.
BetLion will support Wakhu on his highly-anticipated quest to join and succeed on the golf course both locally and internationally.
As part of the agreement with BetLion, Wakhu will wear the BetLion logo on the front of his hats and shirts during all of his golf-related appearances, beginning this week at the Magical Kenya Open at the Karen Country Club.
“BetLion’s association with David Wakhu reflects shared values and common traits. Attributes that embody leadership on the golf course – vision, plus focus; discipline, with adaptability; passion and persistence – define us both,” BetLion Managing Director Spencer Okach said.
Golf Park Pro David Wakhu on the practice green
He added, “David started as caddie and rose to become Kenya’s top pro-golfer, always going one better, true to our slogan #SportJustGotBetter.”
Wakhu, won the opening round of the Safari Tour Golf Series at Nyali Golf and Country Club, said he is delighted to find a sponsor.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join the BetLion team as I continue to pursue my professional career. BetLion’s long-standing commitment to bettering sport thrills me. As someone with a passion for golf, I look forward to the positive impact we can make together,” Wakhu expressed.
The deal marks BetLion’s first initiative on sport development in Kenya with more initiatives to be announced in the coming weeks.
Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga celebrating with Kashiwa Reysol fans after a win in a previous game
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 12 – Harambee Stars head coach Sebastien Migne has been dealt a great blow with on-form striker Michael Olunga ruled out of the final African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Ghana on March 23.
Olunga who has been on form for his side Kashiwa Reysol in the Japanese second tier league picked up a hamstring injury in the side’s 1-0 win over Albirex Niigata that has since ruled him out for the next three weeks.
In his place, Migne has called in Zesco United forward Jesse Were who had been previously overlooked despite also doing well for his Zambian club.
Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga celebrating with Kashiwa Reysol teammates after scoring in a previous game
Olunga will be a great miss for Migne especially coming at a time when he had picked up brilliant form scoring three goals in the last three games for Reysol and slowly becoming a cult hero for Reysol.
The forward scored in the massive 3-0 win over Ethiopia and pressurized Ghana to an own goal in the 1-0 win at the Kasarani Stadium last September.
The team is scheduled to hit camp on Sunday ahead of the tie with foreign based players led by skipper Victor Wanyama expected to link up with the team in Nairobi.
Football Kenya Federation boss Nick Mwendwa with Betin Marketing Director Carlo Buttaci during the unveiling of the Harambee Stars partnership on March 12, 2019. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 12 – Betting firm Betin has been unveiled as the official Harambee Stars partner for its journey to the 2019 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in June in a deal worth Sh20mn.
According to Football Kenya Federation president Nick Mwendwa, Sh5mn of the 20mn will be used for kitting while the rest will be used to help the team prepare for the competition from this month’s game against Ghana, the camp in France and the final tournament in Egypt.
“With Mariga (MacDonald) being an icon of Kenyan football and Betin brand ambassador, this is a huge thing for us and the national team. We are happy to welcome BetIn to the family and we thank them for finding value to come on board especially for the Cup of Nations,” Mwendwa said.
Football Kenya Federation boss Nick Mwendwa and Betin Marketing Director Carlo Buttaci exchange documens after signing a Sh20mn sponsorship deal for the Harambee Stars on Macrh 12, 2019. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
“We are extremely proud with this exciting partnership and the timing is perfect as we join Kenyans to watch the team prepare and play at the Cup of Nations for first time in 15 years. This will mark the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial partnership between Betin and football in Kenya,” Betin Marketing Director Carlo Buttaci said.
He added; “In the near future we aim to develop a strategy to benefit not only the upper tier of football in Kenya but also the grassroot which is equally important for the future stars of the national team. We will focus our efforts to ensure we give a platform for them to be able to one day line up with in the national team,”
Harambee Stars head coach Sebastien Migne and Betin Marketing Director Carlo Buttaci after signing a Sh20mn sponsorship deal for the Harambee Stars on March 12, 2019. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA
The same sentiments were echoed by FKF boss Mwendwa who welcomed Betin to enter into a longer partnership with the national team as well as explore other avenues of helping to grow the local game.
Secretary general Robert Muthomi added; “We also believe that with the value delivered to the brand, they will see more opportunities for partnership with Kenyan football at different level. We have the Harambee Starlets and a very competitive National Super League. Our women’s league continues to grow in popularity and we have now created the third tier of women’s football.”
The partnership will steer Stars through the final qualification match against Ghana later this month, iinto the training camp scheduled for France from May 15 and the ultimate tournament in Egypt in June.
The team has been training thrice a week; Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday since January as they prepare for the four-team tournament that will be held at the RFUEA ground.
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 12 – After a two and-a-half month training program, Kenya Under-20 head coach paul Odera has whittled down his squad for the 2019 Barthes Cup to 36 ahead of the championship set for April 4 and 7.
The team has been training thrice a week; Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday since January as they prepare for the four-team tournament that will be held at the RFUEA ground.
Among those named in the final squad includes Homeboyz’s Johnston Olindi who has picked up immense experience playing for the national sevens team at the World Series.
Odera has also named six foreign based players led by University of Pretoria’s Jeff Mutuku who has been a core figure of the Under-20 team over the last two years.
“We’ve seen that there are players who are able to deal with the pressure of playing at International rugby level and they’ve also learnt a lot about themselves. We have around 10 players returning from last year’s championship which is good experience and a big boost for our preparations having come close to beating Namibia last year,” said Team manager Jimmy Munene.
Chipu, as the team is commonly referred as start their campaign against Kenya on April 4 in the late kick off after Namibia face off Senegal in the early tie.
The winners of the two matches will square out against each other in the final on Sunday with the winner set to earn a ticket to the Junior World Rugby Trophy Championship later in the year.
Full squad:
Ian Njenga, Brian Amaitsa (Nondies), Steve Biko, Bonface Ochieng, James Mcgreevy, Douglas Kahuri (Kenya Harlequins), Wilfred Waswa (Northern Suburbs), Jeff Kiragu, Kelvin Munene (USIU Africa ), Collins Obure, Sheldon Kahi (Blakblad), Ian Masheti, Frank Aduda (Impala Saracens), Edward Mwaura, Ibrahim Ayoo, Beldad Ogeta (Menengai Oilers ), Emmanuel Silungi, Johnstone Olindi, Kelvin Agwambo (Homeboyz), Martin Oyugi, Charles Wangwe (Mwamba), Samuel Osongo, Alspencer Owade (Laiser Hill Academy), Samuel Asati, Stephen Osumba, George Maranga, Geoffrey Okwach (KCB), Lorence Ishuga, John Okoth (Nakuru RFC), Andrew Matoka (Strathmore Leos ).
Foreign based:
Jeff Mutuku (University of Pretoria), Ashley Owain (Merchiston Castle School, UK), Ashley Owain, George Kiryazi (Merchiston Castle School, UK), Dominic Coulson (Marlborough College, UK), Rotuk Rahedi (Millfield School, UK), Andrew Siminyu (Sharks Academy)
Former Football Kenya Federation Secretary General Hussein Swaleh
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 12 – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is set to send a delegation to the cpountry to visit the family of former Football Kenya Federation Lower Eastern branch chairman Hussein Swaleh who died on Sunday in the Ethiopian Airline plane crash.
Swaleh who was a CAF match commissioner was returning to the country after serving in the same capacity during last Friday’s CAF Champions League tie pitting home side Ismaily and DR Congo side TP Mazembe in Alexandria, Egypt.
“President Ahmad was among the first people to call me on Sunday and express his condolences. He will be sending a delegation led by former CECAFA president Tenga (Leodagar) to visit and grieve with the family,” FKF boss Nick Mwendwa told Capital Sport.
Meanwhile, CAF has announced that a minute silence will be observed before all Champions League and Confederations Cup matches this weekend to mourn Swaleh and the rest of the 156 souls which perished during the unfortunate morning crush on Sunday.
@CAF_Online will organize a moment of silence before kick-off in all matches of Day 6 of #TotalCAFCL in memory of the victims of the Ethiopian Ailrines plane crash including Mr. Hussein Swaleh M’tetu. pic.twitter.com/0XVrXouPe1
Swaleh was the Secretary General of the Federation when Kenya last played in the Cup of Nations in 2004 and after being elected to chair the Lower Eastern branch, FKF forwarded his name to CAF as a match commissioner last year and was to serve till 2020.
“We have lost a good servant of the game. I was with Swaleh last three weeks ago at the Qatar embassy where we were meeting with the embassy officials on plans around the 2022 World Cup. He has been with us for the last three years and supported every agenda we have put on the table,” Mwendwa said.
Hussein Swaleh accompanied FKF boss Nick Mwendwa for a meeting with the Qatari ambassador to Kenya on February 21
“He has been a friend and a strong guy who doesn’t keep quiet with opinion but has supported us all through now into the fourth year. This is a bvig loss to football and as a federation we are putting our heads together to know how we are going to help the family,”
“I have been in communication with them every day and now we await for the issues around the body to know what next,” Mwendwa further stated.
Sofapaka’s Piston Mutamba vies for the ball with AFC Leopards’ Isaac Kipyegon (right) and Aziz Okaka (left) during their 2019 Kenyan Premier League first leg clash at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 12 – Just a day after celebrating the club’s 55th birthday, AFC Leopards will have little time to party as their new found form will come under sharp focus when they face a stern Sofapaka test at the Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega on Wednesday afternoon.
Ingwe banished a six-game losing streak with back to back victories over Sony Sugar and Tusker FC and the club will be looking to take that count to three when they take on third placed Batoto ba Mungu.
AFC has been boosted with the news on Tuesday afternoon that their defender David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng will be eligible to play after the Harambee Stars defender received his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) from Sweden.
“I am glad that I can finally play but I don’t think I am yet in a position to start because it has been long since I played. But I am ready if the coach wants me to start then I have to do my best,” Ochieng noted.
He added; “This is the first step of my journey back to the top and hopefully I will give the best to the team.”
Ochieng’s addition will be a huge plus for the AFC defense that had been leaking goals before their victory over Sony in Kakamega.
Head coach Cassa Mbungo will also hope Ochieng’s experience in his vast career will help propel the team off the bottom half of the table as they are currently languishing at 14th spot with 16 points, five away from the top half.
Sofapaka’s John Avire vies for the ball with AFC Leopards’ Isaac Oduro during their 2019 Kenyan Premier League first leg clash at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
The first leg between these two sides ended 2-2 but it promises to be a cracker when they meet again at Bukhungu.
Meanwhile, Sofapaka will go top of the standings with victory on Wednesday. They sit third with 30 points, just two shy of early leaders Bandari and a victory will put them on top of everyone.
“That is the motivation we have as a team because, you can never count the matches you have not played. Being on top of the league is itself a morale boosting thing to the players and that is our target. To go up there and remain there,” Sofapaka coach John Baraza said.
He added; “We expect a very tough game beyavse AFC are in good form and that means there is something positive they are doing. It is always tough against them and it will not be different this time.”
Sofapaka will welcome back defensive stalwart Mousa Omar who missed last weekend’s massive 3-0 win over Chemelil Sugar in Awasi, but they will still be without the injured trio of Dennis Odhiambo, Michael Oduor and Mohammed Kilume.
Fapaka head coach John Baraza shouts instructions on the touchline during the Kenyan Premier League match against Gor Mahia at the Afraha Stadium in Nakuru on February 18, 2019
“Dennis has trained very well and he is back up in contention. But we felt this match is too early for him but next week he should be available. Mohammed has just started light training but probably in the next three or four weeks we should be looking at him back,” Baraza opined.
In the other midweek ties, Kariobangi Sharks will be at home against Nzoia Sugar at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, the reigning FKF Shield champions looking to get themselves back into title contention.
After two draws in their last three games, Sharks find themselves dropping down to fifth spot with 26 points and boss William Muluya will be aiming to get back to winning ways against a Nzoia side that has lost four of its last five games.
Nzoia, still without replacement for Nicholas Muyoti as head coach, are struggling to keep afloat and are 11th in the standings with 20 points.
The first leg in Sudi ended 0-0 and it was the first time the sugar millers were getting a point off Sharks, the latter having won all the preceding four ties.
KPL Wednesday midweek fixtures:
Western Stima vs Chemelil Sugar FC – Kisumu – 3pm
AFC Leopards vs Sofapaka – Bukhungu – 3pm
Kariobangi Sharks vs Nzoia Sugar FC – Kasarani – 3pm
Wazito FC players Derrick Onyango and Victor Ndinya celebrate a goal during a past National Super League match
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 12 – The National Super League second leg kicks off on Wednesday with the hunt for the two automatic and one play-off Kenyan Premier League promotion slots intensifying into the final 19 games of the campaign.
Leaders Ushuru FC, second placed Nairobi Stima, Wazito and Kisumu All Stars who are the leading candidates for the three slots will all be in action, each hoping to keep their bid on track.
The taxmen have been in this familiar position over the last three seasons but in all occasions have dropped the pot at the doorstep when it mattered most and lost their promotion bid.
They lead the standings, albeit on goal difference as they are tied on 41 points with both Nairobi Stima and Wazito and will face lowly Migori Youth in Kisii looking to bounce back from last weekend’s 1-0 loss over Kenya Police.
Ushuru FC players celebrate one of their three goals during their 3-0 win over Kangemi All Stars at the Camp Toyoyo Ground on March 4, 2019. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
Migori are placed 17th with a meagre 12 points and have only won once over their last five games and just two in 19. Ushuru will be the straightforward favorites in the 3pm kick off especially as they have never lost against the south Nyanza side, winning 1-0 in the first leg.
In Nairobi, Wazito FC under pressure from their millionaire owner to ensure a return to top flight will be taking on Nairobi City Stars in the earliest kick off at 11am at the Camp Toyoyo.
Assistant coach Fred Ambani will continue taking charge of the team with the search for a new head coach dragging on.
Capital Sports understands the club has already settled on former Harambee Stars coach Stanley Okumbi to take over after the sacking of Mohammed Mchulla, but the tactician is yet to put pen to paper hence the delay in naming him.
But that will not be an excuse when the side looks to pounce on any slips by Ushuru and second placed Nairobi Stima as victory will see them scale up top if the two drop points.
Lloyd Wahome joined Wazito FC from 11-time Kenyan Premier League champions Tusker FC. PHOTO/Wazito FC
Just this week, the club has signed the Tusker FC duo of defender Lloyd Wahome and midfielder Amos Asembeka to bolster their promotion bid and the two are set to be thrown straight into it against City Stars.
“They have trained well over the past two days and for sure they will be starters. They bring in a wealth of experience and I hope they can replicate what I have seen in training inside the game. I believe they will play a big role in our promotion bid,” Ambani said.
He expects a tough duel against the mid-table City Stars but believes the push of getting to the top of the table will be enough to spur them into a positive result.
“It will be a very tough game because there’s always some sense of rivalry between us and City Stars. We have our targets and focus is on remaining at the top so that for us is motivation enough,” Ambani noted.
The club will miss the services of Ghanaian Patrick Acquah and Anthony Gathu through injury, but Ambani is comfortable knowing the club has enough depth to cover.
St. Anthony’s Kitale head coach George Owoko gestures from the touchline during their Kenya Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) game in Eldoret on July 24, 2018. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
Meanwhile, second placed Nairobi Stima under the stewardship of former Bandari and Tusker assistant coach George Owoko will be at home in Naivasha taking on eight placed Bidco whose four-match winning streak was put to a halt by Administration Police last weekend.
Stima look solid to hunt for promotion and are the only unbeaten side in the NSL so far this season having won 11 of their 19 fixtures and drawn 8. Over the last five, they have won four and drawn one and will be keen to ensure that run remains intact.
NSL midweek fixtures
Migori Youth vs Ushuru (Awendo Stadium, 3pm)
Green Commandos vs Modern Coast Rangers (Bukhungu Stadium, 12:00pm)
Wazito vs Nairobi City Stars (Camp Toyoyo, 11am)
Administration Police vs Kisumu All Stars (Camp Toyoyo, 2pm)
Kibera Black Stars vs Kangemi All-Stars (Camp Toyoyo, 4:15pm)
Fortune Sacco vs Kenya Police (Thika Stadium, 1pm)
Thika United vs Coast Stima (Thika Stadium, 3pm)
Shabana vs St. Joseph’s Youth (Gusii Stadium, 3pm)
Eldoret Youth vs FC Talanta (Eldoret Polytechnic, 3pm)
Nairobi Stima vs Bidco United (Karuturi Grounds, 3pm)
