NASSAU, May 3- Kenya got off to a nightmare start at the second IAAF World Relays in Bahamas when the men 4x800m quartet were disqualified having finished in the silver position whilst their 4x400m compatriots crashed out at the heats as action got away early Sunday.

In the two-lap men final where the first medals of the event at T. Robinson Stadium were awarded, Kenya were disqualified because the exchange between Nicholas Kipkoech and Olympics bronze medallist, Timothy Kitum had been completed just before the changeover zone.

World Youth champion, Alfred Kipketer led America’s Duane Solomon but the crucial move came with just under 200 metres to go on the second leg when Erik Sowinski went past the inexperienced Kipkoech and gave the Americans a lead that they never relinquished.

Sowinski handed over the baton to Casimir Loxsom 20 metres ahead of the Kenyans and despite the presence of London 2012 bronze winner Kitum on the third leg, last year’s winners could barely make an indication into the lead.

Robby Andrews initially stretched the lead out to 25 metres over the first 400m of the final leg before Jeremiah Mutai closed the gap down the final back straight as they closed in on the first gold medal.

However, Mutai had been too audacious and while Andrews was clearly tiring down the final 100 metres, looking up at the stadium screen he had been gauging his effort more assiduously and pulled away once more to round off the victory in 7:04:84..

In fact, the flagging Mutai was almost caught by Poland’s fast-finishing 2014 European 800m champion Adam Kszczot.

However, after finishing just a few metres behind Kenya, Poland were eventually to take second in 7:09:98 as, shortly after the conclusion of the race.

Having been a distant and isolated fourth for the last two legs, Australia found themselves promoted to an unexpected place on the podium, taking third in 7:16.30.

Mexico were the only other finishers in fourth place with 7:22.61.

The men’s 4x400m quartet were knocked out in the first round after running 3:05.96 for fifth in the second heat won by USA in 3:02:81.

KAJIADO, May 3- Six-time champion Ian Duncan navigated by Kavit Dave in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 10 won the KCB Kajiado Rally that closed at the fan-packed Athi River Quarry Super Special.

It was the veteran’s first victory of the season barely six months after he took the honours at last year’s season-closing Guru Nanak Rally in his Nissan Patrol pick-up.

Duncan had his triumph effectively sewn-up when speedster Raaji Bharij was involved in a minor accident on CS7 and had to kiss the Kenya Motor Sports Club (KMSC) organised rally goodbye despite early brilliant displays.

He bowed out of the rally when his car hit a small tree but the damage to the windscreen would not allow him to stay on for safety reasons, according to Toshi Saito, of the Delights Motors in his second crash in succession after he rammed into another tree during the previous round of KCB Safari Rally.

“All went well. My new navigator Kavit was also good. Thanks to Liquid Telecoms for the big support,” said Duncan.

Rajbir Rai in a Ford Fiesta R5 navigated by Tim Challen finished second ahead of Safari winner, Jassi Chatthe who closed the podium to maintain his lead at the top of the Kenyan National Rally Championship (KNRC) standings.

“I feel I have regained my lost confidence after the Kisumu incident. I have made a big step forward and hope to now handle the car even better. I am happy with the second place,” The Ford driver remarked.

Chatthe fronts the table with 76.5 points as Duncan moved to second on 56.5 as Rajbir, son of the seasoned two-time national champion, Sarbi Rai shooting up from ninth to third on 39.

“We are quite happy to finish third. The pace was not that quick for me being first car on the road. We encountered many animals on the road. That did not help us but third is good enough as it helps maintain the overall lead of the KNRC. I’m now preparing for the next rally in Zambia on 16,” the Africa Rally Championship leader added.

Eric Bengi won 2WD category by bringing his car in eighth position overall with Murage wa Waigwa scooping the KNRC S class title by coming just behind in ninth.

The rally that went on despite announcement by sponsors on Friday it had been cancelled after heavy rains made parts of the original route impassable saw the high profile withdrawals of top drivers Alastair Cavenagh, the Tundos -Tash, Frank and Carl, Jonathan Somen, Baldev Chager and the Rais-Tejveer and Onkar Rai in protest.

KMSC resorted to alternative routes and extended the event’s programme by a day with clerk of course, Jimmy Kahumbura pressing on with the rally despite the hue and cry it generated.

The leader board exchanged hands thrice with Rai opening a 15 seconds lead after CS1 Isinya Stage but this was short-lived when Duncan took over the lead on CS2 and clung onto to it through to CS3.

Bharij was ahead of the pack in the next two stages on CS4 and CS5 before Duncan bounced back on CS6 to recapture lead through to the very end.

With heavy rains forecast Kajiado Rally ironically passed on under scorching conditions with fans who descended on the Quarry stage in their droves for the spectator action treated exhilarating displays of rallying artistry.

The rally was route opened by 1995 Safari Rally champion, Kenjiro Shinozuka from Japan having made his name when he won the world toughest event when it was part of the World Rally Championship.

“I really enjoyed the rally and looking forward to returning for the Safari,” Kenjiro who was invited to the country by Delights Motors remarked.

Karan Patel who retired on the transport road section after CS1, Thaiti Wachira who could not reach the start after a minor accident on Mombasa Road, Darren Miranda, Charan Thethy, Farhaaz Khan and Evans Kamau who was time barred made the casualty list during the third leg of the KNRC.

PROVISIONAL FINAL RESULTS

1. Ian Duncan (EVOX) 1:02.26
2. Rajbir Rai (Ford Fiesta R5) 1;02.59
3. Jassi Chatthe (EVOX) 1;03.40
4. Jas Mangat (EVOX) 1:04.26
5. Izhar Mirza (EVOX) 1:08.07
6. Jasmeet Chana (EVO9) 1:09.51
7. Dennis Mwenda (EVO9) 1:09.59
8. Eric Bengi (Toyota RunX) 1:13.39
9. Murage Waigwa (Subaru GC8) 1:14.01
10. Asad Khan (Subaru N10) 1:14.55
11. Steve Mwangi (Subaru N10) 1:15.51
12. Nadeem Kana (GC8) 1:16.08
13. Jansher Sandhu (EVO9) 1:16.55
14. Hussein Malik (EVO6) 1:17.08
15. Sammy Nyorri (Toyota RunX) 1:18.41

NAIROBI, May 4 – “I need support from well wishers or government so that I can come out of here. It’s not my wish to be in this state, anyone who will come to my aid I will appreciate because the condition here is unbearable.”

That is not a beggar in the streets but Kenya’s pioneering Olympics female boxer Elizabeth Andiego who is detained at Nairobi’s Kenyatta National Hospital after failing to raise Sh60, 000 (USD632.2) hospital bill after being discharged last week.

The mother of one who represented the country at the 2012 Summer and at last year’s Commonwealth Games was admitted a fortnight ago after a hit and run accident along Kangundo Road.

“I was discharged on Wednesday last week but I’m still in hospital because I can’t afford to pay my bill, they have even taken my bed away so I’m sleeping on the floor.

“I’m calling on well wishers to help me financially through the pay bill number 901607 so that I can be back on my feet; I will be going for dressing after two days and all that needs money,” Andiego who is the first Kenyan female boxer to trade blows in the Summer Games told Capital Sport on Monday.

Boxing Association of Kenya chairman (BAK) John Kameta revealed they are in the process of collecting money from the boxing fraternity to bail her out by Wednesday.

“I personally went to visit her in hospital two days after she was admitted and as boxing family we will meet today (Monday) and to see how we will get her out of hospital soon and I’m optimistic in two days time she will be in her home.

“I got the information from the brother on Saturday that she had been discharged but they did not have money but we could do nothing at the moment because it was on a short notice but I have called friends to contribute for us to help our daughter because I know she is very traumatized,” he told.

The BAK boss called on National Olympic Committee – Kenya to also chip in since Andiego not only represented the federation but the country too under their banner.

“In boxing we survive from hand to mouth the federation doest have money and that’s why I urge NOC-K to extend the insurance cover when the boxers are out of competition; it will help cover such incidents when they occur.”

After undergoing successful operation on her left leg, Andiego could take up to seven months to get back on her feet as she hopes to compete in 2016 Olympics Games in Rio de Janeiro.

“The wound is healing I’m just exercising with clutches and I’m relieved the doctor said I will be okay after the seven months when the metal plates will be removed,” Andiego who comes from a humble background said.

NAIROBI, May 4 – Questions are bound to be raised on preparations and make-up of Team Kenya for the second IAAF Bahamas World Relays that slumped from third to seventh overall when the championships concluded at the T. Robinson Stadium in Nassau on Sunday.

From winning three gold medals at the same venue last year to two silvers this term, the squad was locked by the controversial withdraws of its biggest stars, two-time world champion, Asbel Kiprop and world junior record holder, Ronald Kwemoi.

Many other distance stars among them record holder, David Rudisha, world champion, Eunice Sum and former world titleholder, Janeth Jepkosgei were not invited for the Trials in March after not meeting Athletics Kenya (AK) requirement of competing in the domestic Safaricom Relay Series prior to the selection event.

Like in the opening day on Saturday, Kenya failed to hit the heights on Day 2 when the quartet of Abednego Chesebe, Alphas Kishoiyan, Ferguson Rotich and Timothy Cherotich were beaten by the world record run of the United States who clocked 9 minutes, 15.50 seconds in the men’s distance medley.

The team of Kyle Merber (1200m), Brycen Spratling (400m), Brandon Johnson (800m) and Ben Blankenship (1600m) improved on the nine-year-old record of Kenya, thanks in part to an outstanding last leg by their anchor who clocked in 3:51.24.

Blankenship took over in front but was over a second-and-a half outside the world record pace. He then saw experienced Cherotich got pass him 200 metres into the first lap and quickly establish a 20-metre lead, but the American held his nerve and started to reel in his rival.

By the bell, Blankenship was on the shoulder of Cherotich and then passed him on the final bend before visibly gritting his teeth down the home straight, well-aware that the Kenyan was going through the pain barrier as well as both men could see what was happening on the big stadium screen in front.

Blankenship, racing in his first major international competition, had enough in the tank though to go into new territory for the event as Cherotich brought Kenyan home in second place, clocking 9:17.20.

Australia took the bronze medals in 9:21.62.

Alex Sampao, Boniface Mweresa, Joseph Losanga and Raymond Kibet were disqualified in the men 4X400m on Sunday in the heats to follow the similar fate that befell Alfred Kipketer, Nicholas Kipkoech, Timothy Kitum and Jeremiah Mutai on Saturday with poor baton handling once again proving to be behind their distasteful exit.

On Saturday, the women’s medley relay quartet of Selah Busienei, Joyce Zakari, Sylivia Chesebe and Virginia Nyambura ran 10:43.35 for silver in the only other occasion the team scaled the podium with Kenya falling to seventh on 15 points this term.

Annet Mwanzi, Sheila Chesang, Sylvia Cherop and Eglay Nalyanya (8:33.15) finished last in the women 4x800m race as the men 4x400m team of Alex Sampao, Boniface Mweresa, Michael Makan and Alphas Kishoyan (3:05.92) crashed out of the heats by finishing fifth on the opening day.

Two-time world marathon champion Catherine Ndereba was Monday night robbed of household goods and Sh44,000 (USD 463.3) when a gang of five raided her Nairobi residence in Karen.

Police spokeswoman, Gatira Mboroki confirmed the incident to Capital Sport on Tuesday morning, saying the thugs also escaped with her Kenya Prisons uniforms, two mobile phones, laptop, jewelry and her pair of shoes.

No one was hurt in the 8:30pm robbery where the two-time Olympic silver medallist, four-time Boston marathon champion and former world record holder was accosted when she entered her parking.

“It was around 8:30pm when she was heading to her house when five men, one armed with a pistol confronted her before heading to the house to rob her.”

“She said the thugs walked off so we suspect they were in the compound already waiting for her since she claims they didn’t have a vehicle. We have already launched investigation but the good thing is that apart from stealing no one was injured,” Mboroki told Capital Sport.

Ndereba, 41, who made a comeback in Japan last month after a two-year break is a Superintendent at the Nairobi West Prison.

NAIROBI, May 6- The 2016 Olympic qualifying match between Somalia and Rwanda has been moved from Nairobi to Djibouti after Kenya declined to host the game, Somali football officials said.

Somalia, who lost the first leg 2-0 in Kigali two weeks ago had approached Kenya to stage the return match at the Kasarani stadium on May 9, but Football Kenya Federation (FKF) declined the request claiming the Somali Football Federation (SFF) had failed to seek clearance from the Kenyan government.

“Arising from the security situation in our region, it is mandatory that we must get clearance from the Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” FKF scretary Michael Esakwa had said in a letter to the SFF made available to the media.

But in a reply the SFF media officer, Shafi Mohyaddin Abokar accused the FKF of being uncooperative, saying Kenya had already issued their players with entry visas into the country for the match and termed the FKF decision as “an unwanted move which is not good for fair play”.

“It came as a surprise to us, when the Football Kenya Federation said in a letter on Monday that it was not able to organise the Somalia-Rwanda match in Nairobi, and yet the government of Kenya had already granted entry visas to Somalia,” Abokar said in a statement.

“Football Kenya Federation has taken an unwanted move which is not good for the fair play and as well as damages the relationship between the two associations.”

Abokar said the fixture had subsequently been switched to the neighbouring Djibouti, who had automatically accepted Somalia’s request to stage the match.

NAIROBI, May 6 – Head coach Sammy Rono says Kenya’s team for the second IAAF World Relays in Bahamas paid the price of fielding an inexperienced squad after sliding to a seventh finish last weekend.

For the first time the national anthem was not played at a major international athletics event for three decades after the side settled for two silver medals as compared to last year where a vastly experienced team won three titles and set two world records in Nassau.

Rono, who spoke when the team of 27 returned home on Tuesday night however, defended his charges saying the technical bench could not select elite athletes since they failed to turn up in the national relays series which was a mandatory for consideration.

“It was very competitive from the word go. I was there last year but this time, things were different since I had a very young team.

“We took a new line-up because the technical bench had set rules requiring everyone to appear in one of the national relay series to be considered for selection but none of them showed up,” Rono said despite two-time world champion, Asbel Kiprop and African silver medallist, Ronald Kwemoi who pulled out late featuring in the last Safaricom Relay Series meet in Nairobi.

Kenya’s dismal performance was compounded by the disqualification in the men’s 4x800m and 4x200m races but Rono drew positives saying it was a learning experience for them.

“Other countries like Bahamas and USA made mistakes too; yes I agree the simple mistakes were costly but I’m happy with this team, they have a bright future because even elite athletes started from somewhere, so it’s good to give them a chance.”

Sprinter Collins Omae said the disqualifications affected the team’s overall performance but at the same time added it was a learning experience for them.

“Everyone did his bit and it was the first time for most of the guys so I think it wasn’t that bad of. The disqualification affected the overall performance because were dropped points but all in all it’s a sport and anything could happen; we also saw other counties disqualified. We didn’t have that much experience but it was a good learning curve,” Omae a former national Sevens player explained.

With top elite athletes like 800m Olympic and world record holder David Rudisha, women’s world champion Eunice Sum, Janeth Jepkosgei as well as 5000m Commonwealth Games title holder, Mercy Cherono  locked out since they did not compete in either of the national series, Athletics Kenya CEO, Isaac Mwangi said they will reconsider the selection format.

“We have a very open selection where we give everyone a chance but we cannot force someone to run when they are not willing too, of course we leant few lessons on how well we can improve on the selection format so we will meet and rethink how well we can improve on that to field a stronger team in 2017,” the CEO declared.

“We were hoping to get gold in the medley relays but a few technicalities affected the team because we had to do a very tricky balance since we had a 4x400m and 4x800m team and we had to select someone to run the 400m and 800m legs,” Mwangi added.

In the absence of Kiprop and world junior record holder  Kwemoi, Abenego Chesebe anchored the men’s medley to the silver medal.

The corresponding women race saw the team of Selah Jepleting, Emily Cherotich, Sylvia Chesebe, Joyce Zachary and Fransisca Koki gave Kenya other silver medal.

NAIROBI, May 6 – A second-half strike by Ali Abondo was enough to see champions Gor Mahia open a seven point lead at the KPL summit following their 1-0 win over Sony Sugar at Awendo’s Green Stadium on Wednesday.

After a goalless first-half Abondo broke the deadlock from a well curved free-kick from the edge of the box in the 57th minute as the champions maintained their unbeaten start to the season nine matches in.

The match that saw head coach Frank Nutall start with Timothy Otieno and Innocent Wafula was stopped for over five minutes after heavy downpour in the first-half flooded the Awendo pitch.

Michael Olunga could have opened the scoring in the 13th minute but failed to tap in Abondo’s corner while on the other end the only chance for Sony came in 12 minutes later when Vincent Ogutu rattled the woodwork.

Gor who arrived in Awendo on the day of the match after a seven hour bus drive entered the match at the back of a 2-0 triumph over Ulinzi Stars.

The goal came moments after Sony and former Gor head coach Zedekiah Otieno introduced Victor Ademba and Meshack Muyonga for Victor Ayugi and Keneddy Oduor in bid to force the result as they hoped to bounce back from last weekend’s 5-1 mauling at AFC Leopards.

Gor piled more pressure upfront with Nuttall withdrawing Rwandan Meddie Kagere and goal scorer Abondo for George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo and Ernest Wendo but neither could double the lead.

Gor travel to Western Stima on Sunday while Sony who suffered their second successive defeat host struggling KCB.

NAIROBI, May 6 –Pioneering Olympics female boxer Elizabeth Andiego can finally go home to her son after her shameful hospital detention nightmare ended Wednesday.

It took the intervention of nominated Member of Parliament and The National Alliance Party chairman, Johnson Sakaja and Kenya Professional Boxing Commission (KPBC) chairman, Hilary Alila to come to her aid ending a pitiful ordeal that has lasted for three weeks.

Andiego, the only female boxer to fight at the Olympics and Commonwealth Games for Kenya had been held at Kenyatta National Hospital, like so many other desperate patients for failing to raise her Sh60, 000 bill  (USD630) following an operation on her left leg after being involved in a hit and run accident.

“I’m very happy today I’m sleeping in my house; I want to thank all those who came to my aid especially Sakaja and Alila. They also gave me some cash to cater for my medication. I feel appreciated,” Andiego, a mother of one, told Capital Sport after being allowed to go home.

On Monday Capital Sport revealed Andiego was being held up at the largest referral institution despite being discharged last week for failing to settle her dues where she suffered the ignominy of being forced to sleep on the floor when her bed was withdrawn.

It could take up to seven months for her to be back on her feet but Andiego who made the last 16 at the Scotland Commonweath Games, is still hopeful she will live her dream of competing at Rio Summer Games in 2016.

Andiego’s ordeal started when the motorcycle she had hitched a lift was rammed by a taxi while returning home from a Nairobi Central Business District gym along Kangundo Road.

“We called the taxi company that was responsible but they told us they can’t do anything since the company hired the car, but they are following up on their insurers to pay me,” Andiego who grew up at Nairobi’s Eastlands said.

NAIROBI, May 7 – Kenya will enter 17 out of 23 disciplines up for competition at the 11th Africa Games formerly All Africa Games set to run from September 4 to 19 in Congo Brazzaville.

Among the disciplines left out is female boxing after the country’s pioneering Olympics and Commonwealth fighter Elizabeth Andiego was ruled out of action up to a year following a hit and run accident.

Andiego who was released from Kenyatta National Hospital on Wednesday, is the only female boxer could qualify for the event having competed at 2012 Olympics and last year’s Glasgow Club games in the middleweight.

Other sports locked out are Fencing and Gymnastics who don’t have full-fledged federations and structures while Kenya Bowling Association bowed out of the continental championships because the version on offer at the games is different from the one they practice.

In a bid to better 2011 Maputo performance where the country collected 50 medals, 14 Gold, 14 Silver and 22 Bronze, the ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture has constituted a committee led by Sports Commissioner Gordon Oluoch to begin early preparations.

“The Management and Steering Committees aim is to surpass the 2011 Maputo medal tally of 50 medals that was the best performance for Kenya to date, but with meticulous preparations, Kenya can do much better,” the Games Executive Officer, Charles Nyaberi stated.

Athletics who came home with17 medals, 5 Gold, 5 Silver and 7 Bronze, headline the disciplines alongside, Badminton, Boxing (men), Cycling, Handball, Judo, Karate, Lawn Tennis, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tae Kwon Do, Weightlifting, Wrestling and Paralympic Sports that will all feature both men and women categories.

Apart from the competitive disciplines, Kenya will also be represented in the Youth Camp.

Kenya Sevens, women’s Volleyball team and Beach Volleyball (men & women) are the only team sports after the national men Under-23 football team, men’s volleyball and basketball were bundled out in the qualifiers.

Sponsors African Union elected to switch the name of the quadrennial championship from All Africa to African Games.

JOHANNESBURG, May 8- Success-starved Kenya need a mini-miracle Saturday to stay in the race for a 2016 Rio Olympic Games football place.

The East Africans host Botswana at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi having to score at least three goals to repair the damage inflicted by a 3-0 first-leg loss two weeks ago.

Bungling Kenyan officials contributed to the unexpectedly heavy defeat as a delay in arranging visas meant the squad reached the match venue less than four hours before the kick-off.

Ill-prepared Kenya faded dramatically after half-time, conceding three goals, and striker John Nairuka was red-carded, ruling him out of the return match.

But Scotland-born Kenya coach Bobby Williamson believes his team can put the Botswana fiasco behind them and book a second-round date with Zambia.

“Botswana scored three goals in 45 minutes so I am confident we can do the same in 90 minutes,” he told Kenyan reporters.

Williamson and assistant Musa Otieno say Kenyan hopes hinge heavily on striker Michael Olunga.

The 21-year-old Nairobi student, a first-leg absentee because he was writing examinations, has impressed with champions Gor Mahia.

“I am counting on Michael to be at his best and to score goals for us like he has been doing for Gor,” said Williamson.

Former towering centre-back Otieno added: “We really missed Michael in Botswana. Chances were created but we lacked someone to score goals.

“It is possible to overcome the deficit because we will not be suffering from fatigue as was the case in Botswana.”

Kenyan football is experiencing a terrible year with the Olympic team losing 4-1 overall to Egypt in a 2015 All-Africa Games first-round qualifier.

The senior national squad watched the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea on TV after failing to make even the group phase of the qualifiers.

And Gor Mahia and Sofapaka were unsuccessful at CAF club level, making early exits from the Champions League and Confederation Cup respectively.

Rwanda defend a 2-0 lead over Somalia Sunday in a second leg set for Djibouti owing to on-going insecurity in Mogadishu.

The match was originally scheduled for Nairobi, but Somali officials did not seek clearance from the Kenyan government.

Northern Ireland-born Rwanda coach Johnny McKinstry is optimistic ahead of the game in the tiny Horn of African state.

“Somalia defended very deep in the first leg, making it difficult for us to create chances. Now they must come at us, leaving space at the back,” he said.

The overall winners face Uganda.

Olympic football qualifiers are restricted to under-23 footballers with each country permitted three ‘over-age’ players at the tournament in Brazil.

NAIROBI, May 8- Sirkal (Government) is back! The last time Gor Mahia played in Kisumu on November 21 last year, bedlam ruled as the club sealed their record 14th Kenyan Premier League (KPL) title with a 3- 0 rout of Ushuru FC.

Ecstatic soldiers of the Green Army of all rank and file turned every corner of their spiritual lakeside city green in manic celebrations that started with a pitch invasion at Moi Stadium, then a chaotic trophy presentation before the party spilled out to the town.

Nothing has changed since then, Gor are still top of the KPL summit nine games into the 2015 season and unbeaten; with Western Stima who relocated to Kisumu the tenth side seeking the honours in the mini-competition to become the first side to deny the champions points this term.

But nothing ever happens quietly in Gor with club fans who have already deep in travel or arrangements to make massive exodus to Kisumu embroiled in furious online debate over appropriations of their gate collections from last weekend.

The champions frogmarched Ulinzi Stars out of their City Stadium cauldron with a 2-0 defeat with figures released by club treasurer Ken Otieno stirring the hornets’ nest at the financially struggling club.

According to the figures, Sh943, 700 (USD 9,889.88) was collected with stadium security chalking up a huge chunk of the collections in what fans felt should have gone to the players who were reported to have gone on a go slow before Wednesday’s 1-0 win at Sony Sugar.

The club’s internal security were paid Sh50,000 (USD524), Sh20,000 (USD 209) was paid to Kenya Police officers manning the match with a fellow listed as ‘Obonyo Security’ taking home Sh4,000 (USD41.92) against player’s allowances pegged at Sh20,000 (USD209).

“The biggest problem with Gor Mahia is Spending at Source…it’s not about the justification of expenses as it would wholly appear. Expenditures like the 30K payment to Jerry, Obonyo Security etc could be valid.

“Way forward let’s plead with our brothers in the office to accept all payments to be made after banking that will help eliminate 50% of White Elephant Projects,” fan Daniel Nganyi lamented on their official Facebook wall as comments expressing outrage against the way the club’s meagre finances are being handled populated the forum.

- Obonyo Security-

However, the brouhaha over ‘Obonyo Security’ and the treasurer’s report will not deter thousands of Gor fans in the ‘diaspora’ joining those in Kisumu and surrounding lakeside towns in turning Moi Stadium into an intimidating sea of green as their mission not only to defend, but defend unbeaten, continues gathering steam.

K’Ogalo lost in form forward Michael Olunga and defender Harun Shakava to the Stars Under-23 side attempting to overturn a 3-0 deficit to Botswana on Saturday but having netted 21 goals, 18 of them from the razor sharp trio of Ali Abondo, Meddie Kagere and  missing Olunga, the champions have enough ammunition to switch off Stima.

However, Henry Omino’s side have established a reputation of being difficult to breakdown and are currently sitting fourth after briefly being at the top earlier in the season thanks to impressive wins against Sofapaka and Sony.

Striker Fredrick Shimonyo, who has scored four of Stima’s 11 goals, will be expected to lead the front line.

- Ingwe in Mombasa-

Archrivals AFC Leopards who plundered five past hapless Sony and their keeper Lucas Indeche who was promptly axed for K’Ogalo’s visit head down to the coastal city to play Bandari on Tuesday having received Sh500,000 (USD5,239.95) from a benefactor to facilitate the travel.

Ingwe have a decent record against the port-siders who are struggling for form having controversially lost in Kisumu last weekend in the clash that will pit sixth against 10th on the KPL log.

Ulinzi and Sony are seeking to bounce back from defeats when they take on Chemelil and KCB on Tuesday and Sunday whilst Muhoroni host improving City Stars in Muhoroni in the only Saturday fixture.

Ushuru entertain bottom side Nakuru All Stars at Safaricom Kasarani Stadium hoping to levy them all the three points on Sunday.

NAIROBI, May 7 – Having nothing to play for, the national Sevens team are out to upset champions New Zealand, Series leaders South Africa and Samoa as the 2014-15 HSBC Sevens World Series enters its penultimate round in Glasgow this weekend.

Losing Core Status is a near impossibility for Kenya who are 16 points above relegation threatened Japan heading to the final two legs where Felix Ochieng charges just need to reach the Plate to  be guaranteed safety.

“Some of the changes have been warranted by Lavin Asego’s injury who has been consistent and as a management it’s a big loss because his contribution on and off the pitch has been very vital to the highs and lows we have had this season.

“We need to ensure we stay on top in all sides, either through defence or attack so that we give ourselves the best possible chance of going through to the Cup quarters,” Ochieng urged the team before departure for Glasgow.

Being an Olympic Games qualifier season, All Blacks and Blitzboke are expected to leave nothing to chance in the automatic ticket race for the top four places whilst Shujaa and Samoa will be seeking morale boosters as they head for the regional qualifiers in November.

Kenya who enter the pool as dark horses will be put to test in their opening match against New Zealand at 2:20pm local time (+3 GMT) who last lost to Shujaa in February 2013.

All Blacks who go into the match as favourites having beaten Shujaa in their last seven matches, cannot afford to drop more points as they chase one of the available four slots for the Summer Games automatic qualification.

With Asego ruled out with an ankle injury, Ochieng might start with Homeboyz’s Augustine Lugonzo in favour of seasoned Biko Adema since the former had a good run, converting all kicks in his last two assignments.

Other returnees who are likely to start are Dennis Ombachi to replace Patrice Agunda, Oscar Ayodi in place of Tony Owuor while Tony Opindo is also available to fill Felix Ayenge’s spot at the back.

New Zealand who won Plate in Japan have also made changes in their squad with Gillies Kaka, who has not played since injuring his hand at Las Vegas 7s and Sam Vaka returning to the team.

Both sides will meet for the first time this season.

The second match will see Kenya lock horns with stubborn South Africa at 5:04pm who have proved to be a hard nut to crack after trouncing Ochieng charges  six times this season.

Despite Blitzboke riding on a high, Shujaa return to Scotstoun Stadium where they stunned South Africa 14-7 last season.

Having known how they play since they have met on several occasion this term, it would be a perfect opportunity for them to earn sweet revenge.

However, Kenya’s back-line have an uphill task in stopping Fabian Juries who is fourth on all-time try scorers list on 179 behind the country’s record scorer Collins Injera who is on 196, as well as contain speedy dreadlocked Cecil Afrika.

A win for Shujaa will increase their chances of advancing to the Cup quarters while a good performance for the Commonwealth champions  will not only ensure they stay in the hunt for the coveted World Series title, but also clinch their direct spot for Olympic Games in Rio.

The last preliminary fixture will see Kenya take on Samoa at 8:15pm who are three places above them on 56 points.

It’s a relatively fair fixture for Kenya who boast of two successive wins this season against the Samoans.

Just like Shujaa, Samoa have had a mixed season but went a step high in making the final in Gold Coast and the semi-final in Hong Kong but they have also found themselves fighting in the Bowl and Shield at times.

Local timing +3GMT, Glasgow 7s.
Kenya v New Zealand – 2.20pm

Kenya v South Africa – 5.04pm

Kenya v Samoa – 8.15pm

NAIROBI, May 9- Kenya once again crashed out of the Main Cup quarters after losing their two opening Pool B matches in row as Glasgow 7s action got underway Saturday.

In much improved displays against giants, Shujaa first surrendered 7-22 to New Zealand All Blacks Sevens before South Africa’s Blitzbokke handed them a 5-22 defeat to dump Felix Ochieng’s side out of the main competition with a game to spare against Samoa in their last fixture.

In the sixth fixture of the ninth Scottish tournament, where close scores have been the norm, the All Blacks Sevens once again used Joe Webber as one of their primary weapons.

The Hamilton Boys High School flyer scored in the opening minute, but from there Kenya settled into their routine.

Playing with verve and a little more individuality than New Zealand, the lightning fast Africans kept hustling Sir Gordon Tietjens’ team, who duly stuck to their structures and did not let their opponents through.

Eventually the side cornered the Kenyans and Webber again pounced, crossing in the fifth minute.

Beaudein Waaka, after missing his first chance, struck the second conversion over to make it a 12-0 game at halftime.

The power game of the All Blacks Sevens was in play during the second half, with DJ Forbes and Sherwin Stowers crossing in a torrid two minutes for Kenya as their defence was unable to cope.

Yet Kenya kept probing and were eventually rewarded when Shujaa based try scorer Augustine Ligamy crossed the white line in the 13th minute, with the “Homeboyz” star (a club based in Nairobi) adding his own extras.

Against African rivals and series leaders South Africa, record try scorer Collins Injera used his guile and speed to give Kenya the perfect start against Blitzbokke.

Kenya come knocking once more and look to double the lead but for Kwagga Smith’s intervention on the line.

Seabelo Senatla looked to score at the death, but Odiambe saved for an outstanding half from Kenya who completed the most dominant opening period of play against the leaders this season as an upset looked on the cards.

But South Africa started at pace in the second half and looked a markedly different side as Kyle Brown went over on the right flank.

The conversion was missed but Senatla finished off a coast-to-coast move for the second try in the as many minutes as Kenya once again crumbled after the break and soon, pure class from the Blitzbokke star saw him brilliantly change pace and accelerated for third to seal the game.

NAIROBI, May 9- The 2016 Rio Olympics miracle fell just short for Kenya under-23s as they crashed out of the qualifiers on Saturday despite a Michael Olunga hat-trick inspiring a 4-1 rout Botswana at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium.

It was a heartbreaking exit for the hosts who recorded their biggest victory in ages against a side that tore them 3-0 in the first leg but ultimately, the away goal cost them as the breathtaking tie finished 4-4 on aggregate.

Given virtually no chance of progression, Bobby Williamson’s charges welcomed back student and the lanky Gor Mahia striker Olunga back to the fold after he missed the first encounter to sit for exams a fortnight ago.

His worth to the team was immediately felt when he powered Kenya to the lead to launch the incredible fight back that came within another goal of sealing one of the most stirring comeback victories from the dead in the tie that also served as a CAF Under 23 Championships qualifier.

However, it was the Young Zebra’s who threatened first with Ian Otieno thwarting Bogosi Kaekwa from point blank range after he raced to a Kabelo Seakanyeng pass in the first dangerous raid of the match.

After Collins Shivachi and Olunga threatened an opener for the hosts, the Gor forward was put through by Jackson Macharia with 19 minutes gone and this time, he did not miss the target after uncorking a powerful finish past Goitseone Phoko in the Botswana goal.

Soon, it was 1-1 when Oomatla Kebatho who notched a brace in the first leg equalised from a Mpho Kgaswane threaded ball to peg Kenya back and restore their three goal advantage and crucially; get what proved to be the priceless away goal.

Undeterred, Harambee Stars piled forward and Olunga claimed his double when he tapped in a Collins Shivachi cross in the 33rd to carry a 2-1 lead to the break.

Jackson Macharia saw his powder keg strike turned away brilliantly by Phoko close to the hour after being put through by substitute John Ndirangu who was brought on by Williamson to inject pace in the attack as Kenya gave their Olympics hopes one final push after the breather.

With Botswana content on keeping the Kenyans at bay after their initial thrust at the start of the second half died down, Ndirangu almost enlivened proceedings when he forced Phoko into another good stop before he finally nailed in a deserved goal 12 minutes from the 90 to re-ignite hopes of the improbable.

However, Botswana had the sights of the finish line into additional time but Olunga was not done yet as he claimed his first hat-trick for his country when he nodded in an Ian Otieno free-kick deep into the stoppage period.

The sands of time then ran out for the hosts as the relieved Young Zebras advanced to meet Zambia in the next phase as Kenya were left ruing the missed opportunity of the bungled first leg were a second half capitulation cost them dear in spite of the handsome 4-1 win.

Barnabas Kibii breasts the tape for men’s marathon victory

KERICHO, May 9 –Barnabas Kibii and First Lady’s Half Marathon champion Georgina Rono, won the sixth Tea For Health Kericho International Marathon on Saturday to take home Sh1.5m (USD 15,725.07) each.

Rono a third finisher at 2012 Boston Marathon battled the hilly and sloppy course inside the tea plantation to win her second local race in 2:35:12, three minutes ahead of Beatrice Cherop while Philomena Chepchirchir who returned to competition after serving a six-month doping suspension closed the podium in 2:38:59.

Kibii who finishing 26th last year, dominated the men’s race in 2:17:42, two minutes ahead of Joseph Ngeny as Vincent Tonui clocked 2:19:28 to take the bronze position.

The women’s race saw Chepchirchir compete in her first race after being suspended by Athletics Kenya for testing positive for banned substances at the 2012 Prague International Marathon where she finished second.

“I’ve just called Athletics Kenya vice President David Okeyo and he has confirmed she (Chepchirchir) was cleared so there is no problem,” race director Japheth Kimei told Capital Sport.

In a relatively slow race that saw athletes battle warm conditions, Kibii managed to breakthrough at the halfway mark after running in a pack of six to win his first career marathon title.

“After doing badly last year, I prepared well this time and by God’s grace I won. The course was not tough to me since I knew it. I’m planning to race in Germany next year,” Kibii said after breasting the tape ahead of all challengers.

-Wire to wire-

Georgina Rono powers victory in women’s race

The women’s race saw Rono, complete an almost wire-to-wire victory, surging ahead of the competition after only three kilometres to motor unchallenged for the crown for her second domestic victory inside a month.

“The race was tough because I had to maintain the lead after opening the gap so early but my experience helped me win. The race had worthy competitors the likes of Chepchirchir but I had to do my best,” Rono who is preparing for Frankfurt Marathon in the fall stated.

Gilbert Maasai won the men’s 10km race in 29:32:2 ahead of Kenneth Kopech (29:44:8) as Izack Kipkoech came third in 29:49:9.

The corresponding women’s race dominated by Rose Chelimo who clocked 34:39:9, to beat Caroline Chepkemoi (34:57:0) and Betty Wilson (35:04:6) to the podium.

Collated results

Men

1.Barnabas Kibii 2:17:42

2. Joseph Ngeny 2:19:12

3. Vincent Tonui 2:19:28

4. Moses Kigen 2:20:29

5. Edwin kibet 2:20:30

6. Weldon Kirui 2:20:35

7. Moses Loluk 2:21:7

8. Alex   2:21:40

9. Julius Tuwei 2:21:50

10. Fredrick Kemboi 2:51:52

Women

1.Georgina Rono 2:35:12

2. Betrece Cherop 2:38:39

3. Phelomena Chepchrichir 2:38:59

4. Rosina Kibiwott 2:45:05

5. Naomi Chepng’etich 2:47:58

6. Naomi Chebonei 2:48:20

7. Vicoty Chepkemoi 2:49:10

8. Harriet Chebore 2:50:57

9. Lillian Matelong 2:51:59

10. Irene Jerop 2:53:44

NAIROBI, May 10- Champions Gor Mahia and Western Stima fired blanks in a timid draw at Moi Stadium, Kisumu on Sunday as veteran midfielder, Charles Okwemba’s double fired Ushuru FC to a 2-0 win over hapless Nakuru All Stars in the only scoring Kenyan Premier League clash of the weekend.

Despite stretching their unbeaten start to the season to ten, K’Ogalo missed the chance to stretch their lead at the summit further after being kept at bay by the well drilled Henry Omino side as the Green Army descended on the lakeside city to support their side in their spiritual home.

Having beaten bitter Nyanza rivals Sony Sugar 1-0 midweek, Gor vaunted attacking force was particularly blunt with the absent Michael Olunga, who fired a hat-trick in Harambee Stars Under-23 ultimately fruitless 4-1 rout of Botswana on Saturday felt.

There was nothing much to write home about the first half as the sides went in goalless with the champions upping the ante after the break as Stima retreated deeper to park the proverbial bus.

Rwandese international, Meddie Kagere who is first becoming a crowd darling, fired goal-wards from close range in the 72th minute but his shot was snuffed out by Gabriel Andika in the Stima goal as pulses raised in the stands.

Scottish head coach, Frank Nutall then hauled on Ronald Omino, the son of Stima boss Henry as he sought family inspiration to unlock the stubborn home side and the gamble almost paid off when the substitute just failed to connect a pass into the box.

Gor were almost given a sucker punch two minutes from time when Stima sprung forward on the counter only for Ronald Okoth to fire the finish wide before George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo spurned the chance to grab all the headlines when he floated his free-kick up and over.

- Okwemba soars-

Former AFC Leopards captain, Charles Okwemba notched the double as Ushuru piled more misery on Nakuru All Stars at Safaricom Stadium, Kasarani.

The veteran put the taxmen ahead directly from a free kick in the second minute before he repeated the same trick deep into ten minutes of added time to round the victory in the only scoring game in the KPL on Sunday.

Sony and KCB also shot blanks in Awendo in the other result in a low scoring weekend that started with the barren stalemate between Muhoroni Youth and City Stars.

NAIROBI, May 11 – After winning medals in Cross Country and track, two-time World Cross champion Emily Chebet has announced she will step up to the full marathon next year.

Chebet who set a Personal Best of 1:08:01 at last year’s Valencia Half Marathon revealed to Capital Sport she is ready to stamp her authority over the classic distance.

“Next year I will try marathon though it’s very hard but with good training I’m sure I will make it. After the World Championships I will go for one road race then concentrate on marathon,” the Bydgoszcz 2010 and 13 IAAF World Cross Champion declared.

The Commonwealth Games Bronze medallist who failed to defend her World Cross title in Guiyang, China will begin her marathon preparations immediately after the Beijing World Championships where she is eying a spot in 10,000m.

Chebet’s interest to shift gear to full marathon comes four months after women’s 10,000m Worlds silver medallist, Gladys Cherono finished second on her debut at Dubai Marathon.

In the meantime, Chebet has set her focus on the summer Worlds where she seeks to make the Kenyan team to improve on her 2013 performance in Moscow, Russia where she finished fourth in a Personal Best of 30:47.02.

As part of preparation for Kenya National Trials in July, the 29-year-old will compete at this weekend’s IAAF Permit Bangalore 10km Road Race in India and New York’s Albany 5km in June to gauge her speed.

Chebet who hails from Kericho told Capital Sport she will leave nothing to chance if selected to represent the country at the global showpiece that gets underway from August 22 to 30 where she will be seeking her first medal.

“I’ve not started training for track yet, I will run two road races in India and New York then come back to polish on my speed work as I wait for 10,000 trials. For now I can’t say I will come home with Gold because I don’t know how I will perform at trials,” Chebet, a former African 10,000m Bronze medallist said.

However, with the return of double 5,000m and 10,000m World Champion Vivian Cheruiyot, Chebet is aware of the stiff competition expected at the National Trials that may also include Cherono among others.

“Vivian coming back is a good thing because she will make the team stronger but if we all make the team including Cherono, it will depend on who has more energy so this time round I’m hoping to run well,” she added.

With Olympics and defending champion Tirunesh Dibaba out on maternity leave, Kenya has a chance or reclaiming the title last won by Cheruiyot in Daegu, South Korea four years ago.

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 11- Paul Tergat has paid moving tribute to his greatest rival on the track and best friend off it, Ethiopia’s Haile Gebrselassie following the latter’s decision to bring curtains to his astonishing 23-year career on Sunday.

Haile, who is credited with 15 world records, two Olympics gold medals and nine IAAF World titles including four consecutive men 10,000m crowns announced the end of his competitive running days after finishing 16th at the IAAF Gold Label Great Manchester Run.

Tergat, widely acknowledged as the ‘gentleman of athletics’ who is serving his nation as a Kenya Defence Forces captain and the sport as an International Olympics Committee (IOC) Member since 2013 hailed the man he chased to history and the only stumbling block to his own greatness.

In an epic rivalry that defined distance running for a generation, Haile stood between Tergat and glory at an incredible two Olympics and three successive IAAF World Championships by forcing him to accept silver in 10,000m.

“He’s a great person, a great man. He’s much welcome to retirement since he’s shown young Turks how to build the sport. Of course, he has not left the sport but only competitive running, so it is not the end,” Tergat said on phone.

The living Ethiopian legend beat Tergat to the top medal at the 1995, 1997 and 1999 IAAF World Championships but it was their performances at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Olympics that cemented their legendary status.

“I’m now inviting him to take up management in his country Ethiopia, the region, Africa at large and even at the world level. I never knew how big the sport was until I retired and I know his great experience, understanding and excellence in the sport can make him a great leader as well,” Tergat added.

It was his heartbreaking loss at the Sydney Olympics – where he was beaten by a thinner margin than the 100m final- coming in for once as the favourite that led to the Kenyan great to move up to the marathon where in 2003, became the first man in history to dip under 2:05 when he won Berlin Marathon in 2:04:55.

But Haile was not done with him since he also stepped up to the classic distance where in 2007, broke Tergat’s record at the same course in a 2:04:26 performance, pausing his press conference to call his Kenyan rival to apologise.

“The record was Paul Tergat’s. He’s my great friend,” Haile told bemused reporters at the time.

“Actively participating in sport is very much demanding and Gebre can now enjoy the sport more than he did from the outside since there is no more pressure to perform and he can still run for fun. He is free now” Tergat who was voted an IOC Member during the 125th IOC Session in Buenos Aires in September 2013 explained.

“I invite him to Kenya we see what we can do together to lift our sport and I’m looking forward to working with him in retirement,” the founder and patron of the annual red carpet Safaricom Sports Personality of the Year Awards added.

NAIROBI, May 9- In a sorry show of deep divisions in the top echelons of Football Kenya Federation (FKF), two National Executive Committee members have taken to emails to trade insults and damning accusations against each other as elections draw near.

Vice-president, Robert Asembo and Tom Alila, the Nyanza NEC Member said to be eying a top seat, have twice gone into a bare knuckled exchange laced with unprintable language over accusations contained in an email thread circulating among top sports journalists full of maligning allegations against the FKF and or its leadership.

Speaking to Capital Sport on the embarrassing development, FKF president, Sam Nyamweya distanced himself from the fight saying none of the parties had approached the federation to resolve their dispute.

“The two are mature men and that is a personal matter between them which I can’t intervene. Should they wish to come forward, I’m willing to resolve their issues but the federation is in no way involved.

“They should not drag the federation to their matters. Our mandate is to run football,” Nyamweya stated on Tuesday morning.

The simmering dispute sparked off a fortnight ago when a series of articles ‘exposing’ the ‘rot’ in FKF started hitting inboxes of leading journalists and top football officials that infuriated Asembo who claimed a former sports editor writing under aliases was being ‘used’ by Alila and another NEC Member to malign him and FKF leadership.

Whilst the other NEC official has kept away from responding to the accusations, Alila has taken Asembo head on in shocking exchanges, some which cannot be reproduced here for their libelous and abusive nature that dims their standing as leaders in the national football governing body.

“And by the way I don’t need an apology from you. You started by dragging my name in this. It shows how conceited you are grow up!” Alila stated in one of the bitter exchanges.

“Tom Otieno Onyango Alila, you’ve asked me to apologize, and I have said an emphatic NO!! The truth shall set you free!! What I have written in response to you and xxxxxxxxxxx is nothing but the truth. Choose to stay with the truth or shut up,” the FKF vice-president bit back.

“Honestly you People. Slow down on this kind of exchanges. It’s really embarrassing how far this exchanges has reached.

“I would really wish that I am removed from this mailing list but While am still here – Alila and Asembo, you can discuss the issues quietly one on one,” Sam Shollei, who was elected FKF vice-president in the 2011 elections before being hounded out of office advised.

“You thrive on suspension of your opponents. Shame on you some came running! You stole Shollei’s position which he was rightfully elected you thought it was all in vain shame on you guilty by association verdict is waiting for you. Mp and silver (MP & Silva) is also knocking. Arrogance has no place in football,” Alila fired at Asembo accusing him of engineering the removal of his predecessor from office.

The Nyanza NEC official also brought in the broadcast rights deal between FKF and the international media agency who own, manage and distribute TV and media rights around the world whose partnership with the federation is reportedly on the rocks.

On his part, Asembo claims Alila was in the know about the suspensions of Shollei and fellow NEC Members, Hussein Terry (Coast) and Dan Shikanda (Nairobi) only for him to align himself with them ahead of the forthcoming elections.

“Even Terry and (former CEO Lordvick) Aduda know your role and contribution to their suspensions. Little did you know that your day would also come, and indeed it came!!” his rant read in part.

The acerbic accusations and counter accusations come at a time top football leadership is positioning itself ahead of the polls scheduled for late October with a realignment of positions underway.