NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 14 – Opposite hitter Sharon Chepchumba is a girl in demand. Suitors have been circling her head since her brilliant performance in Tunisia that guided KCB to their second continental title with a 3-1 victory over record champions Al Ahly.

Several clubs, from within the continent and outside have shown interest in acquiring her services, but the national team star is taking her time before making a decision.

“Yes there have been several clubs which have approached me both in Africa and from Europe. But I have not yet made a decision on my future. I am still taking my time because I want to make a decision that is best for me. Currently my focus is only on the national team and my club KCB,” Chepchumba told Capital Sport.

Chepchumba was one of KCB’s mega signings two seasons ago in what was an investment by the technical team to try and raise the team’s standards both locally and internationally.

She has gradually grown to be a key figure for the team and her prowess was visible as she played a crucial role as KCB won their first Continental title in 16 years.

And now, she hopes to probably make another mega move to advance her career.

“If I am to move, I only want to pick a side that is way higher than KCB because that is the only way to grow. Maybe in Europe? But I am taking my time,” added Chumba.

KCB are said to be keen on keeping her services and the club is prepared to increase her financial gains especially if they are to battle for her signature with a fellow African club.

Technical Director Paul Bitok had earlier said that he is ready to convince the sponsors to continue professionalizing the team for better results.

“When I came to KCB I proposed a plan to bring up to five professional players into the team and that is when we brought the likes of Chumba, Wisa (Edith) and Moim (Mercy). Now we have reaped the results and we now need to take another step by adding more professionals and ensuring those we already have feel comfortable here,” the coach said.

KCB meanwhile are looking to translate their continental form locally and hope to battle for the league title when the play-offs start.

The post Hot hitter Chepchumba taking her time as suitors circle her head after brilliant Tunisia show appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 17 – The FIA Rally Star program quartet of Maxine Wahome, Jeremy Wahome, McRae Kimathi and Hamza Anwar have been boosted with a joint sponsorship kitty of Sh45mn ahead of the WRC Safari Rally next weekend.

Telecommunication giants Safaricom will offer Sh25mn, up from last year’s Sh20mn while national carrier Kenya Airways have offered a further Sh20mn.

Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa has said the sponsorship which will be on its second year will be a great boost to the four as they seek success in next weekend’s event.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Kenya Airways for this FIFA Rally Star program. We are also delighted to be partnering with young people to help fulfil their dreams,” said Ndegwa.

He added; “We have spent close to Sh1bn in sponsorship across all sports and we will continue to be involved. It allows us to promote youth to be what they aspire to be.”

Kenya Airways through its CEO Allan Kilavuka also expressed the national carrier’s delight in sponsoring the quartet and hope their injection of support will ease their preparations and hopes for success.

“We have been part of the Safari Rally since the 90s and it is a delight for us to be here and continuing with the journey we have had for so long. We have a history of supporting talent and I am proud that we can help our youngsters put their best foot forward,” he said.

Apart from the ticketing sponsorship for the Rally needs, each of the four drivers will be given return tickets to a destination of their choice for vacation after the rally.

The drivers were elated with the sponsorship, with Maxine and McRae getting into the second year of partnership with Safaricom while Kenya Airways are coming in for the first year.

“I am really delighted with this kind of support, not only for me as a female driver but also for the other members of the FIA group. This will boost our preparations and ensure we prepare and compete well,” said Maxine.

Also present during the ceremony was Sports CS Amina Mohamed.

“It is always great to have corporates sponsoring the rally and we thank Kenya Airways and Safaricom for the injection of support towards this year’s event which we expected to be better. We are also thankful to his Excellency the President Uhuru Kenyatta for ensuring we have this rally for the next five years,” said Amina.

The Safari Rally is scheduled for June 23-26 and will be flagged off by President Uhuru Kenyatta at the KICC before a Super Special Stage at Kasarani, then the cars head out to Naivasha.

The post Kenya Airways, Safaricom splash Sh45mn towards FIA youngins for the WRC Safari Rally appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 19 – Mwamba RFC came from 7-0 down beat Menengai Oilers 21-7 in an exciting final to clinch the Driftwood Sevens title at the Mombasa Sports Club on Sunday and score their first Cup victory of the 2022 National Sevens Circuit.

Daniel Taabu, duly named Most valuable Player of the tournament steered Kulabu to victory as they ran in three converted tries with Oilers only managing to go over the try line once.

Oilers who had stunned log leaders and defending champions KCB 19-0 in the semi-finals were off to a brilliant start with Mark Kwemoi going over the whitewash for the opening try.

The lanky Kwemoi created space through two Mwamba markers with a little dummy before going under the posts, sending the conversion home for a 7-0 lead.

However, Mwamba fought back and Mike Okello’s converted try took them level at the break.

In the second half, it was all Mwamba as Kulabu pinned Gibson Weru’s charges into their own half.

Some patient build up saw Taabu pick the ball on the right and speed off to cross over, the conversion going over for a 14-7 lead.

Chrispine Omondi then put the icing on the cake with the third try of the game which was also converted, Kulabu earning maximum points from the trip to Mombasa.

The 22 points collected saw them cement their hold on fourth spot.

Meanwhile, log leaders and Christie Sevens runners up KCB finished third after edging out Homeboyz RFC 21-14. They remain top of the pile with 58 points, five ahead of second placed Strathmore who they had laid revenge on to beat them in the quarter finals 17-5.

The Leos had beaten the bankers in the final of the Christie Sevens in Nairobi three weeks ago.

At the same time, Nakuru RFC clinched the Challenge Trophy after beating Daystar Falcons 14-0. Kenya Harlequin meanwhile beat Leos 7-5 to win the fifth place trophy while Catholic Monks beat Stallions 22-5 to win the Division Two title.

The post R Family Buda! Mwamba RFC clinch Driftwood Sevens title appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 19 – Thunder put off a poor start to the season, winning their first match after back to back losses with a 74-66 victory over the Africa Nazarene University (ANU) at the Nyayo national Stadium Gymnasium on Sunday.

The National men’s league is continuing despite the Sports Disputes Tribunal last week annulling results from last season’s play-offs after Ulinzi were adjudged to have fielded Valentine Nyakinda ineligibly.

The Kenya Basketball Federation said the current season would continue as they consulted their lawyers on the next course of action.

Thunder had lost their opening match to Strathmore Blades last weekend and went down to Ulinzi Warriors on Saturday, but bounced back to beat ANU and put their season up and running.

“We started well, but we allowed them easy points with stupid fouls, especially in the second and third quarter. We were out-rebounded and we were not better in execution. We won with experience. We take the victory but we need to work on our weaknesses,” said Sadat Gaya, the Thunder head coach.

He added; “We started practice a little bit late. This is week three for us but I believe we will catch up and start playing more as a team. Mostly our losses have been a bit because of physical fitness. We are yet to pick up but we are working to ensure our game sharpness is better by next match.”

Jona Kioko scored a game high 20 points to lead the charge for Thunder with skipper Griffin Ligare adding 17 more. Jerry Andare contributed to 15 points, all coming from beyond the arc.

Thunder were off to a good start and led 24-16 at the end of the first quarter and were 46-37 ahead by halftime.

However, the University students regrouped after the break and came back better, outscoring Thunder by a basket to reduce the score to 58-54.

But, Thunder held on in the final quarter to lead by half a basket with a 16-15 quarter-score, to clinch their first win of the season.

Elsewhere, Equity Hawks started off their campaign in the Women’s Premier League with a 69-48 victory over the Africa Nazarene University.

At the start of the fourth quarter, ANU had taken Equity by their horns and they trailed by half a basket, the bankers leading 43-42. But, at the end of the game, experience won over youth as Sylvia Kamau’s charges went off with a win.

Equity missed several of their key players including Melissa Akinyi who is in camp with the Commonwealth Games 3×3 team as well as centre Salma Akinyi while Samba Mjomba started out on the bench as she begins her coaching journey.

The team however had experienced former National team captain Silalei Shani making her debut after joining the bankers from Eagle Wings.

Shani starred on her debut, amassing 12 points for her new side, same as Linet Atieno who wore Mjomba’s iconic number seven jersey and Cynthia Mawero.

The first two quarters were tight with the two sides going to the break tied at 29-29 with Equity having won the opening quarter 17-16 and ANU winning the second 13-12.

At the end of the third quarter, ANU was ahead by half a basket as they led 42-41.

But, the experienced Equity woke from their slumber in the fourth quarter and outscored the University students by a whole 20 points to glide to their first victory of the campaign as they seek to wrestle the title back from KPA.

In the other Women’s Premier League match played on Sunday, Strathmore Blades, coached by former USIU tactician George Mayienga gunned down JKUA 49-34.

Strathmore had started the game well and went on a 7-0 run against JKUAT, who responded with an 8-0 run but ultimately lost the first quarter 15-14. Strathmore continued their pressure and were 34-21 ahead at Half Time, a dominance they continued to the last quarter.

The post Thunder finally clinch first victory of the season as Equity Hawks start campaign on winning note appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 20 – Tusker FC and Vihiga Queens’ hopes of a return to continental football next season now look all but diminished despite winning their respective leagues, after Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed extended the tenure of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Transition Committee by a further two months.

The two sides had hoped that a new dispensation, devoid of the Committee from the Sports Ministry would take charge of football soon and aid them beat the June 30 deadline for submission of teams for continental football.

However, their hopes now hang in the balance after the CS extended the Transitional team’s tenure by two months effective June 16, which will take the team’s tenure well after the General Elections when a new government is set to take charge.

“1. The mandate of the Transition Committee shall be to—

(a) conduct all the affairs of Football Kenya Federation in accordance with the Sports Act, 2013 and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Constitution;

(b) co-ordinate and ensure the smooth running of Football Kenya Federation operations including team preparations for all local and international sporting events; and

(c) co-ordinate and facilitate the validation of the FKF Draft Constitution.” The Gazette notice signed by the CS reads.

The latest move now means the country’s suspension from international football by FIFA remains, with the world governing body having clearly stated that the only possible way the suspension would be lifted is if the FKF is reinstated.

Former Chief Justice Aron Ringera will no longer serve in the Committee which will now be chaired by Retired Lt Gen. Maurice Oyugi while former Kenya Rugby Union boss and CEO of the World Athletics Under-18 Championships Mwangi Muthee will deputize him.

The rest of the members of the huge committee will retain their slots.

Already, the national women’s football team Harambee Starlets failed to play their final qualification match for the Women’s Cup of Nations while Harambee Stars have been barred from participating in the 2023 Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Harambee Stars have also been excluded from the draw of the qualifiers for the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The latest decision by the CS is a huge blow for Tusker and Vihiga who had hoped for another round of exposure and success on the continental front.

Vihiga Queens won the CECAFA Qualification tournament last year and represented Kenya in the inaugural edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League after which three of its players were scouted for international transfers.

Tusker also returned to the continental scene last year and reached the play-off round of the CAF Confederation Cup, with their skipper Eugene Asike making a transfer to Sweden after he was scouted during the matches.

This now essentially means that the closest Kenya can get back to international football, if and when a solution between the Kenyan Government and FIFA is reached.

The post Why Tusker FC and Vihiga Queens’ Continental hopes now look diminished appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 20 – KCB and Malkia Strikers right attacker Sharon Chepchumba has been named the LG/Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Sports Personality of the month of May.

 The hard-hitting superstar achieved the feat after she was voted the Most Valuable Player at last month’s CAVB African Women Club Championships in Kelibia, Tunisia.

She was peerless in the Bankers 3-1 victory over title holders Al Ahly of Egypt in a pulsating final which treated fans to some exhilarating displays of volleyball artistry.

In winning the coveted monthly award, ‘Chumba’ as she is amiably referred to in volleyball circles took home a personalized trophy and an LG refrigerator worth Ksh 100,000.

Speaking at the Nyayo National Stadium volleyball court on Monday morning, Chepchumba said the award will motivate her to winning more titles, staring with the World Championships in September 23 to October 15.

“Winning this award means a lot to me because I have had a challenging season due to injury, this motivates me more even as we head to the World Championships to help my national team win. This is the first time I have owned this type of a fridge,” Chepchumba said.

“I thank LG for this acknowledgment and SJAK as well for monitoring our work. I usually see other sports disciplines awarded on TV, I am grateful that it has come to be a reality,” she added.

LG Corporates Communication Manager, Maureen Kemunto said; “it is a good exposure for LG to diversify to volleyball, this being the first award in the sports discipline. We hope this award is a motivation to other volleyball players that can be recipents in the future.”

Chumba beat a strong field of nominees including double Deaflympics (5,000m and 10,000m) gold medalist Simon KIbai, Deaf golfer Isaac Makokha who became the first ever Kenyan golfer to win a medal at the Summer Deaflympics in Caxius do Sul., Brazil.

Makokha won a bronze medal in his historic feat.

Other nominee was Strathmore Leos player Brunson Madigu who was the MVP at the Kabeberi 7s.

SJAK President Chris Mbaisi thanked LG for their generous support saying the partnership has gone a long way in rewarding excellence.

 “For 8 years LG has demonstrated their support for sports, both on and off the pitch. And together we share an ambition of creating opportunities at all levels and ensuring every aspiring athlete enjoys an enabling environment. We look forward to further developing our relationship over the coming years.”

The post Hard-hitting KCB star ‘Chumba’ named LG Sports Personality of the month for May appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 21 – Having failed to finish in his debut at the WRC Safari rally last year, Swedish driver Oliver Solberg says he is ready and charged up to tackle the tough terrain and finish the race this year, having had more time to get used to his car.

In his WRC debut, Oliver, son of Rally legend Petter Solberg, retired from the Safari last year after a damaged chassis, but he now believes he is better prepared to tackle and finish the grueling chase on gravel.

“Last year the experience was great but we had our issues. This year the car looks stronger and hopefully I can give a strong performance. I expect a much rougher and tougher rally and I have lots of respect for the race. The target is to finish and if we do without problems that will be a good result for us,” the 20-year old told Capital Sport.

Last year, Solberg didn’t have enough time with the car but after racing with it severally already, he believes he is better equipped and ready to challenge the big boys and make his mark in the rally.

“I am excited to be here. I love this place, the people, the atmosphere is great and challenging. I love the passion. Everyone is super tough with the likes of Rovenperra, Tanak, Neuville my teammate and the rest. I am just hoping I will drive clean this weekend. It is about endurance,” said the youngstar.

He also hopes that they will get at least two of Hyundai’s cars over the finish line for ranking point, with two of them having retired last year due to various reasons.

“It hasn’t been easy of course with so many issues with the car but we have lots of good things to take in. Every race is a fight for the top. I have done three races already this year and I feel ready,” he added.

Oliver hopes to follow in the footsteps of his father Petter who has raced in four consecutive WRC Safari Rally events between 1999 and 2002. He came close to a podium finish in 2002 but a problem with his car in the last stage as he lay second broke his dreams.

Now, Oliver, who has learnt so much from his dad, hopes he can go one better and post a strong finish.

“You know how it is when your father plays football, then you also want to play football. My whole family has a huge passion for motorsport and it is automatic in my blood that I will want to do it even without my know knowledge,”

“I liked ice hockey and I have also played tennis before, but I didn’t like it. It didn’t have enough adrenaline. I am an adrenaline guy and for me motorsports is perfect,” a smiling Oliver said.

He has been accompanied to the Safari Rally by his dad Petter, who hopes that his son can have a better rally than he did last year.

“Honestly I am very proud that he is doing the Safari because it is a memory that stays in your mind for a very long time. It’s so different and special compared with all others. It’s special and for him at the age of 20 to come here and do it is a dream come true,”

“Last year was a terrible rally for him because he came in with no testing and had never tried the car before. It was a little bit too much rush but this year he will have a great rally,” the senior Solberg stated.

He says that he is doing his best to advice and put in suggestions as they prepare and he is definitely sure he will achieve more than he did.

“He can absolutely reach the heights that I did and even better because even when we are doing testing he is always beating me. Rallying is all about experience and he will get more as he goes on. I won my first championship at 27 and the youngest champion is 27, so he has seven years to go,” Petter jokingly stated.

He has at the same time implored on his son to enjoy the rally and above all not focus much on the result until the final day of competition on Sunday.

Solberg spent his Sunday at the Hyundai Showroom alongside Mombasa Road, meeting fans and signing autographs with plenty of good wishes ahead of Sunday’s Rally.

The post Charged up Solberg ready to steer his Hyundai to WRC Safari rally finish appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 17 – Tusker FC clinched their 13th Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League title on Sunday, a final day 2-0 victory over Posta Rangers assuring them of the crown, and making them the joint second most successful football club in Kenya.

The trophy came in typical Tusker fashion, victory on the final day of the season. They have won the crown in this same way in 2011, 2012, 2016 and last season, with final day points.

But, this season was completely different as the Brewers were as far as 18 points behind leaders Kakamega Homeboyz at some point in the season.

They had lost six matches in 12, one more than they lost the entire of last season when they won the crown. But with belief and huge performances from players, they retained the title.

While the entire team put in a massive shift to turn the season around, Capital Sports looks at five players who were absolutely phenomenal in their title run.

Patrick Matasi

The shot stopper was re-signed at Tusker after leaving Ethiopian top tier side St George, but his arrival at Tusker encountered a myriad of speed bumps.

As he returned to Nairobi to start training with the brewers, Matasi had an accident where he was injured alongside his wife and son. But, the strong mentality monster bounced back and has been a key figure in the Tusker side.

His first match for the Brewers wasn’t as he had expected as he shipped in four goals in the CAF Champions League match against Zamalek.

He had to work harder and made his Premier League debut against Sofapaka and didn’t look back. He played 25 matches and recorded 17 clean sheets. Only Nzoia Sugar (2) scored more than one goal against him.

His prowess in between goal as well as his communication from the back were vital for the brewers.

Christopher Oruchum

Having played much on the periphery last season and a few games into the new campaign Oruchum was handed his chance AND DIDN’T LOOK BACK.

The Master of Business Administration graduate nicknamed ‘professor’ by his teammates has been a crucial part of the Tusker backline. In 31 matches, the defender was part of 19 cleansheets, the highest for the Tusker FC backline.

The defender’s deep searching balls were also a crucial part of Tusker’s attack and one of them bore a goal, with several others, including against AFC Leopards and Posta Rangers leading to goals.

Humphrey Mieno

The ever-green Mieno stood out for the brewers when it mattered most. Last season, he was mostly used as an impact substitute and the same spilled over to the first few games of the new season.

However, once Eugene Asike left the team and Mieno took charge as skipper, the roles changed.

Mieno was the engine that ran Tusker’s midfield and his cover both defensively and offensively were a huge asset that led to Robert Matano’s side in going for the title.

His calm head and experience, especially when Tusker were playing the chasing game against Homeboyz were crucial especially with a huge number of young players in the side.

Ibrahim Joshua

The Tanzanian bull arrived at Ruaraka at the beginning of the season, joining from second tier side KenGold and has proved to be a worthy bargain for the alemen.

Joshua scored 12 goals for the brewers this season with two assists to his name and the impact he had upfront was crucial for the brewers. His goals were crucial and came in handy and has been a huge part of the Tusker success.

There is rumor surrounding his future at the club with several clubs said to be interested in his services, but it will not come as a surprise as in the past, most Tusker forwards, including his immediate former predecessor Henry Meja have all made moves after successful seasons.

The post FEATURE: Four players who won Tusker FC their 13th FKF Premier League title appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 22 – His dad, Kenyan rallying royalty Phineas Kimathi, named him after Colin McRae, a World Rally Championship legend and now, the junior Kimathi believes he has what it takes to achieve more than his dad did in his glittering career.

McRae Kimathi has already done more races abroad than his dad Phineas, courtesy of the World Rally Star Program as he prepares for his second assault at the WRC Safari Rally this weekend.

“I am a Catholic and as Catholics, we name our children after saints. When he was born, Colin McRae was one of the best rally drivers and I decided to name him Mcrae Kimathi,” his dad Phineas, the current Kenya Motorsports Federation boss and WRC Safari Rally director stated.

His talent has seen him get into the WRC Star program where he has already competed in Sweden, Croatia, Portugal and Poland.

And now, his eyes are primed on doing well at the Safari Rally, having retired last year due to some problems with his car.

“Last year was my first time driving the Ford Fiesta Three and now I have had one year of getting used to it and definitely that comes with more experience. We have also developed the car to suit this kind of conditions. The route is longer this year but we are hoping to go out there and have as much fun and enjoy our driving then we see where we end up on Sunday,” said McRae, who will be navigated by Mwangi Kioni, son of Kenya Volleyball Federation boss Waithaka Kioni.

He says competing in four races out of the country has been a huge boost to his confidence. He competed on snow in Sweden, on tarmac in Croatia and did gravel in Poland and Portugal where he finished fifth.

“The different races have come in with different experiences and lessons but definitely they have made me better in one way or another. I believe they were good preparations and I am now looking forward to racing at home, something that is close to my heart,” McRae said.

“My target is to win my Class and I am looking forward to it,” he added.

The 27-year old says being part of the FIA Rally Star program has been a huge blessing to his career and seven years on from his first rally, he believes he has had tremendous improvement.

“It has been a tremendous opportunity to do events in Europe with lots of training and the backing has been great to take my rallying to another level and hopefully I can apply the lessons here in Kenya,” McRae noted.

He now hopes he can use the experience he has gathered to outdo his legendary dad and do more than he did during his career, adding that the Senior Kimathi has been an inspiration to him.

“When growing up, I just found myself in a situation where I love cars and I am also passionate about the sport. Of course he (Phineas) had some influence and he also understands what it takes to excel in this sport so there is a lot I can take from him.”

“I think he is definitely happy and proud of how far I have come and hopefully I continue doing the same and achieve more than he did,” added.

He also hopes he can learn a thing or two from seasoned WRC drivers who will be competing at the Safari.

“We can learn quite a bit from the top drivers. They are the best and we can get some knowledge from them on how they work and approach the rally. It will be a good opportunity for dissemination of knowledge and how to improve our rally style,” he said.

The Rally will be flagged off on Thursday afternoon at the KICC by President Uhuru Kenyatta, before they head for a Super Special Stage at Kasarani.

Competition then heads to Naivasha for a gruellling three-day period.

The post Youngster McRae hopes to topple dad Phineas’ achievements and triumph at Safari Rally appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 22 – Micro-Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) make up over 90pc of all firms and accounts, on average for 70pc of total employment and 50pc of gross domestic products.

That is why, the general assembly declared 27th of June the Micro-small and medium-sized enterprises day (MSMEs Day). This day reminds us to recognize and appreciate the importance of these enterprises.

Vaspro, being an innovative platform that provides end to end mobile marketing solutions and enabling all small enterprises needs progress to the next level, We join the world in celebrating and appreciating all MSMEs.

Vaspro helps them avoid the busyness and grow their business. Simplify their communication with an SMS portal which in return helps them grow their; Sales, trust loyalty, and business.

To be benefit from this offer, all you need to do is deposit Ksh.7,000 and get a free sender ID and 2000 free SMS! Do not wait, sign up https://www.vaspro.co/ and get your first free SMS.

SMS is driving sales in today’s mobile fast world. Not all consumers have access to internet connections but almost everyone has access to a mobile phone so, come on, take the advantage and #LetsGrow.

The offer runs from 22nd June 2022 and ends on 29th June 2022, do not get locked out. Notably, general terms and conditions apply.

The post Vaspro Celebrates Micro Small and Medium Sized Enterprises in Kenya with a Special Offer. appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 22 – Double Olympic champion and world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge has teamed up with INEOS to start a cycling Academy at his training camp in Kaptagat.

The Ineos Grenadiers cycling team are working in partnership with Ineos as they invest in the development of a new cycling academy in Kenya, deepening Ineos’ commitment to sport in Africa.

“I’m proud that we are expanding our Kaptagat based training camp from a purely athletics focussed training camp towards a wider kind of sports academy. The INEOS Eliud Kipchoge Cycling Academy is a very natural fit with great potential,” Kipchoge said on his Twitter account.

INEOS Chairman, Sir Jim Ratcliffe said: “There is such exciting sporting talent, passion and ambition in Africa and at INEOS we want to continue to invest to help realise its maximum potential. I visited the Kaptagat facility in Kenya recently and came away convinced that this partnership can do something truly different and unique for cycling – as well as for aspiring young African athletes.”

At the same time, INEOS’ Director of Sport and INEOS Grenadiers Team Principal, Sir Dave Brailsford said the Academy is a significant and exciting development in world cycling.

“We all know the talent is there – we’ve seen it this year with Biniam Girmay’s history-making successes at the Giro d’Italia and Gent-Wevelgem, and I saw it first-hand in the inspiring young athletes I met in Kaptagat. Their passion, dedication and love of sport is a perfect fit with the INEOS Grenadiers’ spirit of giving it all to race and be your best,” he said.

The INEOS Eliud Kipchoge Cycling Academy will be headed up by Valentijn Trouw and the wider Kaptagat team.

Trouw, who is also Kipchoge’s Manager has over 30 years’ experience in identifying and nurturing long distance running talent in Kenya, creating a pathway for some of the greatest distance runners ever to compete on the world stage.

“I am excited by the opportunity to build a relatively new sport in Kenya, in good harmony and collaboration with the Kenyan Cycling Federation, bringing together our collective knowledge and insights from running and cycling for the benefit of the sport,” said Trouw.

The post Eliud Kipchoge teams up with Ineos to start Cycling Academy in Kaptagat appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23 – The top two athletes across the line will earn an automatic ticket to represent Kenya at both the World Athletics Championship in Oregon, United States and the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom, Athletics Kenya have announced.

Kenya has only been given 45 slots for the Commonwealth Games and only the top two in each category at the trials which run Thursday and Friday will be assured of a place in the Kenyan team.

The top two will also earn a place at the World Championships while a third athlete will be named a panel of Athletics Kenya selectors.

At the same time, AK boss Lt. Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei has said all athletes who will go in for the trials will have to commit to double as Kenya will want to field the strongest possible teams in both events.

“All these events are important and very big for us and we will want to field the strongest possible teams. All athletes who have been invited for the trials will have to commit to double and only under very special circumstances will we allow someone to go for only one event,” Tuwei said.

“Only the marathoners are currently exempted from doubling because they need a longer period of time to recover and the two events run back to back,” he added.

The World Athletics Championship runs from July 15 to 24 in Oregon, United States and the Commonwealth Games starting  four days later, July 28 to August 8 in Birmingham.

Tuwei clarified that the invite only two day events that has 175 athletes was based on several factors including the fulfilment of World Athletics anti-doping requirements and competition qualifying standards.

“Kenya is still classed as a Category A country in terms of World Anti-Doping Agency standards. This is not a new thing, it was done for the Rio Olympics, London 2017 and Doha 2019 World Championships as well as Tokyo 2020 Olympics and athletes know that to compete for Kenya at the world event you must have undergone three out-of-competition tests 10 months to the event, and one of the three tests must be a blood sample,” Tuwei said.

Meanwhile, apart from those who will be selected on Friday and Saturday, race walkers Samuel Gathimba and Samuel Ngii as well as javelin thrower Julius Yego have been handed wildcards for the Championships and they will not need to go through the trials.

Kenya will not field any other field event athletes as none has hit the qualification mark.

The invites-only event will see straight finals with the competition program starting on Friday at 1.10pm with the men’s 5,000m final.

At the same time, the two-day trials received a financial boost with Absa Bank announcing a Sh12mn sponsorship while Lotto Foundation added a further Sh3mn boost.

The post Strict doping rules, no favouritism as Athletics Kenya prepares to select Commonwealth, Worlds team appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23 – Nairobi City came to a standstill on Thursday with several major city roads closed out as President Uhuru Kenyatta officially flagged off the WRC Safari Rally at the KICC Grounds.

Roads around KICC as well as those leading to the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani were closed out for most parts of the morning as drivers were flagged off and then headed to the Super Special Stage.

Fans lined up in most streets catching a glimpse of the heavy World Rally Championship Hybrid machines which are racing in Africa for the first time ever.

Here are some photos from the ceremony at KICC.

The post IN PICTURES: Nairobi comes to a standstill as President Kenyatta flags off WRC Safari Rally appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23  – The 4.84km loop of the Kasarani Super Special Stage provided a glimpse of what is to be expected in the second edition of the WRC Safari Rally as drivers raised the dust and competed one v one much to the delight of thousands of fans who thronged the spectator stage.

Sebastien Ogier in his Toyota Yaris Set the best times of the day running the stage in an unbelievable 3:18.8, followed closely by Frenchman Thierry Neuville with a difference of only 0.6 of a second.

Here are some of the scintillating images from the SS1.

The post IN PICTURES: Drivers raise the dust literally as Kasarani Super Special Stage pumps Safari Rally excitement appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 24 – On form Nicholas Kimeli and Winny Chebet led from the front in securing double tickets for both the World Championships and Commonwealth Games as Athletics Kenya started its two-day trials at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani on Friday afternoon.

Kimeli led compatriot Jacob Krop as he won the men’s 5,000m while Chebet led Edinah Jebitok in winning the women’s 1500m with all four earning automatic tickets to the World Championships and Commonwealth Games.

“Today I did not use a lot of strength. It was just about tactics. We worked as a team with Krop because he is a friend of mine and we also train together and we just wanted to ensure we get qualification,” Kimeli, who had the world leading time in the men’s 5,000m this season said.

Kimeli put up a sprint at the home stretch to cross the line in a time of 13mins, 28.65secs with Krop coming home second in a time of 13mins, 29.20secs. Cornelius Kemboi was third in 13mins, 29.90secs.

While Kimeli and Krop have both qualified for the two evens, Athletics Kenya selectors will pick the third athlete for the World Championships.

Kimeli led the race from start as he constantly controlled the pace, signalling to Krop time and again as they sought to run within their strengths but ensure the top two slots.

At the bell, it was Kimeli, Krop and Daniel Simiu at the front, with the former starting to gallop upfront as he sought some pace and space. At the home stretch, he cleared away leaving the chasing pack to scramble for the rest of the positions.

Meanwhile, fresh from winning the African Championship in Mauritius, Chebet clinched victory in the women’s 1500m in a time of 4mins, 11.21secs ahead of Jebitok who timed 4:11.87.

“I am really happy to have won today because it is something I didn’t not expect. I had not trained for three days because I had developed a fever but I am glad to have picked the victory and qualification time,” she said.

Chebet kept in the leading pack alongside the lanky Jebitok, but used her experience to gallop away in the final 200m of the race to clinch victory.

The post Imperious Kimeli, hard fighting Winny Chebet punch winning World Championships tickets appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 24 – Double 5,000m world champion showed her class and experience, kicking at the home stretch to win the 10,000m race at the National trials for the World Championships and Commonwealth Games at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani on Friday.

Obiri who is going double the distance she won at the last World Championship in Doha in 2019 clocked 31mins, 49.88secs ahead of Sheila Chepkirui who timed 31mins, 50.13secs. Margaret Chelimo was third in 31mins, 50.13secs.

Obiri has earned a ticket to compete at both the World and Commonwealth Games but is unsure of whether she will double.

“I will sit down with my coach and we decide whether I will do both events or just concentrate on one and give others a chance. We have to weeks to make that decision,” Obiri told Capital Sport after she won the race.

According to decisions from Athletics Kenya, the top two across the line earn a ticket to both Competitions while a third athlete will be added to the Worlds team by a group of selectors.

Fourth spot finisher Irene Cheptai will have an opportunity for either the Worlds or the Commonwealth Games in case Obiri decides to drop one of the events.

The 33-year old has been focusing on her transition to road running and says she will only compete in the 10,000m.

“Most importantly, I wanted to come here and test myself because I have not done track in a while and I had only been concentrating on road races. It was tough and the girls are really strong and gave me a good challenge. Wining gives me a lot of hope for the next competition,” she added.

Throughout the race especially when the leading pack whittled, Obiri sat on the wings of Cheptai who was leading the race for most of it.

At the bell, the Olympic silver medalist stepped on the pedal and injected some pace with Chelimo, Cheptai and Chepkurui sticking to her tails.

But none could match with her devastating finishing kick as she strode to win the race comfortably.

“Whichever decision we will make, my aim is to always go and give my best and definitely I will fight for a medal,” she said.

The post Obiri shows superb finishing kick to win 10,000m but unsure of doubling at Worlds and Commonwealth appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23 – Mary Moraa ran a scintillating sub-two time to clinch victory at the National World Championship and Commonwealth Games trials in punishing altitude at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, earning a win in the 800m race in a new Personal Best time of 1min, 57.45secs.

Moraa, speaking to Capital Sports has revealed that the reason behind her imperious run was meeting her role model Hellen Obiri before the race and also running alongside another athlete she adores, Faith Kipyegon.

“I didn’t know that I would meet her today but when I came in I met Hellen. We talked and she told me to go in with courage, to believe in myself and go all out to try and qualify. She told me that I was able to do it and that really boosted my confidence,” said the youngster.

She added; “When I came into the callroom I met Faith and I was excited too and she also encouraged me a lot and running with her in the same race was another morale booster for me.”

Moraa’s Personal Best time was 1min, 58.93secs set last month at the Rabat leg of the World Athletics Diamond League.

The 22-year old and Kipyegon both clocked sub-two times, with the double Olympic champion timing 1min, 58.18secs while Jarinter Mawia was third in 2mins, 00.36secs.

Moraa has qualified to run at the World Championships and looks set to be Kenya’s sole representative with no one else having hit the qualifying standard.

Kipyegon is yet to decide whether she will double, though she admits its an idea she is toying with.

“At the moment my only focus is on the 1500m but we will talk with my management and see whether I can double,” she said.

As a defending champion in the 1500m, Kipyegon has a wildcard to the Worlds and did not need to run in the trials. She can however decide to do 800m at the Commonwealth Games.

Meanwhile in the men’s 400m, Emmanuel Korir just but managed to squeeze into the World Championship qualification mark after timing 44.87secs, three microseconds off the qualifying mark.

Boniface Mweresa was second in 45.79secs, but couldn’t qualify for the Worlds, only landing a place in the commonwealth Games team.

The post Mary Moraa reveals how Obiri, Faith Kipyegon inspired her to sub-two personal best at National Trials appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 24 – As the leading pack approached the home stretch at the National World Championships and Commonwealth Games trials on Friday, World Champion Conseslus Kipruto glided away from the chase and waved on Amos Serem and his training partner Abraham Kibiwott to the finish line, with a huge smile on his face.

Serem went on to win the race in 8mins 17.03secs, Kibiwott second in 8mins 17.79secs while Conseslus came home third in 8mins 18.21secs.

Being the defending champion, Conseslus already has a wild card for the Worlds while the top two earned qualification. With his in mind, the reigning holder played a ‘through pass’ to Kibiwott to finish second as he was behind Serem as they skipped over the last hurdle.

“Today, I just let the young guys win. I wanted them to win. Kibiwott is my training partner and my friend and so I am happy that he has qualified and also Serem who is a young guy and very talented. I just wanted to finish in the top three and show everyone that I am back,” said Conseslus.

“I feel okay and my body is in great shape. Today, I would have won if I wanted to because I feel very okay. But it was a day for the young guys,” added the steeplechase king, who is returning after battling injury for almost two years.

Conseslus had stuck to the leading pack for most of the race with the lead changing between Kibiwott, Serem and Amos Kirui.

Olympic bronze medalist Benjamin Kigen struggled from the halfway mark and dropped off the leading pack.

As they went to the bell, Kibiwott, Serem and Conseslus were running side by side with Serem starting to step up while Conseslus followed.

At the final water barrier, it was a two horse race between Serem, the World Under-20 champion and Conseslus. However, in the final 100m of the race, Conseslus stepped away and waved on the two youngsters to the finish line as he secured third spot.

Serem was excited as he got his first ticket to the senior Worlds.

“To be honest I didn’t expect to win today. I saw the field had very good and experienced athletes but I just wanted to come in here and try and see if I could make it. When we went to the bell, I wanted to see who would kick but no one was ready,”

“I kicked a bit and then I felt I had so much energy and the others would not catch up so I just took it up and went to the line,” he added.

The post I wanted the young kids to win, reveals World Champion Conseslus Kipruto appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 – Man on form Abel Kipsang beat reigning World Champion Timothy Cheruiyot in an epic sprint finish to clinch the 1500m victory at the National Trials for the Worlds and Commonwealth Games.

Kipsang who finished fourth at the Tokyo Olympics put up a superb sprint to edge out Cheruiyot in the final 50m and take victory to earn a place in Kenya’s team for the Worlds and Commonwealth Games.

Cheruiyot is already qualified for the Worlds by virtue of being the holder and only competed at the trials to test his body after a spell of injuries slowed down his build up.

Kipsang clocke 3mins, 34.55secs to win the race while Cheruiyot timed 3mins 34.59secs in second as Kumari Taki came in a very close third with a time of 3mind, 34.73secs.

“I am delighted to have won today, It was a very tough race against tough opponents but the most important is to get that ticket to the World Championships,” said Kipsang after the race.

Cheruiyot who finished fifth at the National Championships last month was delighted to have put on a strong show and believes he is ready to defend his title in Oregon.

“I wanted to see how I would respond and that is why I decided to come for the trials. I am happy with how I am feeling and I have so much strength. I will now just need to do a bit of speedwork and endurance to prepare for the world championships,” said Cheruiyot.

The lanky world beater had started off well and stuck to the leading pack in a closely knit group. With two laps to go, the field began to break down but still, about seven athletes hurdled together at the front, Cheruiyot leading.

At the first bend after the bell, he began to pull away with his galloping feet creating some distance between him and Kipsang in second as well as Taki.

However, Kipsang who has a stronger finishing kick pumped up the pace at the home stretch and moved away, Cheruiyot responding to the kick in kind and Taki following in tow.

It was Kipsang who would dip into the line first to secure a ticket for both the Worlds and Commonwealth Games.

Meanwhile, World Under-20 Champion Jackline Chepkoech put daylight between herself and the opposition as she dominated the women’s steeplechase, winning in a time of 9mins, 21.84 seconds while Cleiphine Chespol was second in 9mins, 32.50secs.

Chepkoech and Chespol ran side by side for most of the race, but with two laps to go, the recently crowned Junior champion kicked away to open a gap of almost 100m.

Purity Kirui was third in 9mins, 36.39secs.

Reigning World Champion Beatrice Chepkoech who already has a wild card by virtue of being the defending champion elected not to run at the trials.

In the women’s 5,000m, Selah Jepleting put up a superb performance to win the race in 15mins, 05.24secs in a dominant performance while Beatrice Chebet was second in 15mins, 07.74secs.

The post Kipsang edges out Cheruiyot in thrilling sprint finish as Chepkoech rules steeple appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 – After a period of tough financial strains, FKF Premier League giants AFC Leopards have received a major boost after Spotika announced their sponsorship pledge to the club worth Sh60mn.

The deal with the Kenyan giants that is subject to completion of regulatory processes will come into effect when the 2022/23 Football Kenya Federation Premier League season kicks off.

Being among the fastest growing site, Spotika’s top priority is to support Kenyan football with an aim to bring more engagement and excitement together with AFC Leopards in the near future. Spotika aims to be a reliable partner with strong focus on responsible gaming and passion for football.

The Company has pledged to lead in the transformation into the biggest club in Kenyan Football.

“As they say a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, the successful patnership story of Spotika- Ingwe starts today. Together forward with strength as the AFC Leopards motto” OBULALA NA AMANI,” said Spotika.

Leopards are set to hold elections on Sunday and once the new office bearers are clear, then they will engage in deeper talks.

“In partnership with the club, we shall also build a state of art stadia that meets the international FIFA standards, this shall work as a source of income for the club as well as an incubation center for young talents across the country,” a statement from the company stated.

The post Reprieve for AFC Leopards as they secure bumper sponsorship appeared first on Capital Sports.