Tejas Hirani (R) with CEO Olsbergs MSE Andreas Eriksson (L) when signing the deal on Friday, January 8. PHOTO/JOE MIANO MUCHIRI

NAIROBI, January 8 – Motorsport teen star Tejas Hirani has signed a two-year contract with the biggest World Rally Cross racing team Olsbergs OMSE in the junior team.

Hirani who makes history as the first African driver to join the world RX lites series is set to start the season when he departs for Sweden on January 20.

Speaking Friday when signing the deal, CEO/Team Principal of Olsbergs MSE, Andreas Eriksson expressed confidence in the 17-year-old outlining he can be one of the successful drivers in the sport.

“I believe Tejas is one of the new stars, I believe he can be one of the guys that in a couple of years will be dominating guys in the sport. Stars that come from the sport come up through RX Lites that Tejas will drive this year and then further up to the super cars,” Eriksson declared.

Eriksson who selected his son, Oliver and Hirani as the only two drivers in the world to run the junior team, urged the pair to go through all events on the RX lites Series for them to become complete drivers.

Hirani had a remarkable racing year in 2015 that attracted Olsbergs OMSE when he travelled to Europe to participate in three rounds in Italy, Spain and Turkey.

“I’m humbled and excited at the prospect of taking part in the upcoming championship as the first and only African; this is a dream come true for me and I would like to thank all my sponsors and especially Olsbergs MSE, my trainers and everyone who believed in me throughout my journey. My goal is to win the championships,” an elated Hirani underscored.

He gained entry after participating in a Lites test day which was organized by First Corner in Istanbul last December.

Since then, the African driver has taken the opportunity to compete in Supercar Lites and was the first Kenyan and the first driver in the World Rallycross arena last year.

Having previously competed in Rally Raid and stage rallies as well as the Formula BMW Rookie Program, Hirani shifted seamlessly to rally cross.

He impressed despite never competing in any races under this format where four competitors at a time race in a tarmac and gravel track with the Joker-lap is the most challenging aspect of the course.

Last year saw plenty of success where he collected three championships including the Formula Gulf held in the Middle East region, the Kenyan national auto cross, rally raid and collected his first heat win in Italy.

He boasts a very impressive racing record of 52 wins, 81 podiums, eight national championships and one international championship.

The post Hirani signs big with Olsbergs racing team appeared first on Capital Sports.

A1000-Street-Captain-David-Ojwang lifting the trophy after winning the 38th Koth Biro final on 11th January, 2016 at Ziwani Grounds. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, January 10 – Mathare United forward Roy Syamba hit the target and provided two assists to inspire Kaloleni based A 1000 Street retain the annual Koth Biro tournament after thrashing Pumwani All Stars 3-0 in pulsating final played at Nairobi’s Ziwani Grounds on Sunday.

In the third place play off, home team Opitos overcame Headquarters 2-0 to clinch third place and pocket Sh50, 000.

A 1000 Street who featured six SportPesa Premier League players were favourites and they did not disappoint, scoring all three goals in the first half to receive Sh100, 000 cash prize whilst Pumwani got Sh75, 0000.

“I knew we would win this. The difficult part came during the semi-finals and when we beat Opitos, I knew we would retain the trophy. I can’t wait for the next tou rnament,”A1000 Street coach Zablon “Pro” Otieno said after the match.

Tusker FC midfielder, Brian Osumba opened the scoring in the 28th minute when he managed to slice through All Stars defense before unleashing a thunderous shot from outside the box.

Matta then doubled the scores four minutes later after drawing out on rushing goalkeeper Ryan Hamisi and shooting into the empty net.

Syamba, who had set-up Osumba and Mata completed the first half rout with a brilliant header past the poorly arranged All Stars’ defense three minutes to the interval.

All Stars presented a more formidable game in the second half, with Nakumatt captain Peter Nzuki, Tyrone Otieno, and Saad Mohammed thrice testing Mathare United goalkeeper Peter Odhiambo with their dangerous shots but lady luck was not on their side.

Nzuki found himself unmarked just outside the box in the 63rd but he wasted the chance to pull one back after seeing his right footed screamer miss the target by inches before Bernard Meki’s efforts for Pumwani being matched equally by those from A1000 Street’s second half substitute and Mathare United defender Robinson Kamura.

Pumwani, coached by Mohammed Curtis were wasteful in the last 10 minutes with the holders containing their lead to successfully defend the title.

Kenya Sports Journalists Association of Kenya in conjunction with sponsors SportPesa awarded the outstanding players in the month-long old tournament in the country that was celebrating its 38th year.

Kelvin Kyalo from Headquarters FC was voted tournament’s Most Valuable Player to receive Sh20, 000 and a 43-inch smart TV from electronics firm LG whilst Wenyeji FC striker Salim Ochola received Sh15, 000 for finishing as the top scorer with seven goals.

Morris Muiya, 16-year old from Umeme Bees was named the best goal keeper to walk home with Sh15, 000 and a pair of gloves with Harambee Stars and Norway’s Lillestromme custodian, Arnold Origi adding the youngster Sh10,000.

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Soya chairman Watson Karuma (left), Kempinski Director of sales and marketing, Anne Murungi, mCHEZA Head of Marketing John Seeal and SOYA organiser, Simon Chebon at a press conference on Monday, January 11, 2016. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

NAIROBI, January 11 – All is set for the 12th Safaricom Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) with the panel of judges waiting for Tuesday’s public voting closure to complete the winners list ahead of the black tie gala night slated for Friday at KICC, Nairobi.

After the judges made their choice, the public is voting for their preferred Sportsman and Sportswoman of the year by dialing *279#, before determining the victors who will be feted in 17 different categories.

The panel of judges chairman Watson Karuma said they had a difficult time settling on the final five shortlist after Kenya’s splendid performance in all major tournaments last year.

“2015 was a grueling year making it difficult for us judges to come down with the shortlist of the final five considering it was a World Championships year. More sports locally also outdid themselves to give world beaters a run for their money.

“As soon as the SMS voting closes tomorrow  midnight (Tuesday), the panel will have that final list to be ready for Friday,” Karuma underscored.

The awards received a major boost on Monday after Gaming platform mCHEZA injected Sh3m (USD 29,322.21) while Kempinski Hoteliers sponsored the event with Sh311, 500(3,044.62).

Acumen Communications Limited Marketing Advisor John Seel noted that mCHEZA was keen to support talented athletes in a bid to raise the standard of sports in the country.

“We are happy to sponsor the SOYA Awards this year as it speaks to our vision of recognizing talented athletes; our goal is to scout and nurture talented sportsmen and women from the grassroots.

“We have so far partnered with Green Sport Africa to help scout for footballers in the county and also sponsored the growth of Tejas Hirani, who is the only African to fly the Kenyan flag in Rallycross globally,” Seel declared.

Kempinski Director of sales and marketing, Anne Murungi said they were pleased to partner with the Awards and are looking forward to sign a long term deal.

“We had a splendid performance in 2015 like being at the world map by finishing top at the World Championships in Beijing, not forgetting our Hockey women’s team who defended the Africa Championship and women’s volley ball team who won gold at All Africa Games.

“Looking at this and more honours that Kenya has won, there is no better thing a corporate entity should do but support the good work that the sports men and women of this country are doing,” Murungi underscored.

Top on the list of contenders for the male best accolade is world javelin champion Julius Yego who already took the men athlete of the year award during the Athletics Kenya awards gala.

Yego will be up against footballer of the Year and lethal Gor Mahia striker, Michael Olunga, hockey star, Linus Sang as well as track champions Asbel Kiprop and Geoffrey Kamworor.

The corresponding Sportswoman category features Nune Bonaya (shooting), Mercy Moim (volleyball), Naomi Wafula (golf) and famed champion distance runners; Gladys Cherono and Florence Kiplagat underlining the diversity on show for 2015.

Domestic club football champions, Gor Mahia who held on to their crown unbeaten last year will vie against Simba 15s national rugby, KCB rugby, national hockey team and Harambee Stars in the men’s Team of the Year category.

Volleyball dominates the women’s nominations with the Malkia Strikers teams for the African and World Grand Prix competing with the squad largely consisting Under 23 players that won the 2015 All Africa Games.

The schools category will be an expanded entity with other awards like comeback, outstanding player and coach of the year also featuring.

This year’s awards will be graced by an international sporting icon who will be the official guest and is set to be unveiled on Wednesday at a media briefing in Nairobi.

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Institute of Election Democracy staffer, Ken Njagi, counts ballots during the FKF sub-branch elections last December. PHOTO FILE/ Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, January 12 – After weeks of anxiety Football Kenya Federation Electoral Board has finally broke the silence to announce February 10 as the new date for the National elections which was postponed three times.

The Board also declared that the sub Branch by-Elections in Makadara, Nyahururu and Machakos be held on Thursday while Branches will conduct theirs on January 26.

This follows after presidential candidates mounted pressure on the Board chaired by Lawyer, Donald Kipkorir on delaying the elections which was rescheduled for December 22 after the conclusion of sub-branch polls that were marred by controversy of manipulation of clubs and delegates lists.

In a statement, Kipkorir came to his Board’s defence on Tuesday claiming the impediment was necessitated by the hearing of appeals filed from the sub-branch polls which were determined a week ago.

“We are pleased to state that the Sub-Branch Elections were successfully conducted and only three out of seven appeals ordered repeat elections.

“The Electoral Board has rescheduled new dates for the completion of elections of the Sub Branch by-Elections, Branch and National elections being this date of 14th, 26th of January and 10th of February 2016 respectively.

“We reiterate elections held and those that continue being held in the most transparent manner. We have staggered up dates to enable full participation of stakeholders and for any complaints to be solves that may arise,” Kipkorir declared.

To avoid controversy that emerged at Sub-Branch elections, the Board is expected to publish the register of delegates eligible to vote for the Branch and National polls.

Delegates at the Branch level will vote for eight officials who include Chairman, Secretary General, Treasurer, Women and Youth representatives.

Incumbent Sam Nyamweya is yet to know his fate after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations recommended his prosecution over misappropriation of Sh17.2m, set aside for Harambee Stars facilitation for World Cup pre-qualifier against Cape Verde.

Nyamweya will face FKF chairman, Nick Mwendwa, Gor Mahia and Kenyan Premier League chairman, Ambrose Rachier, Businessman Gor Semelang’o, former FKF vice president, Sammy Shollei, Ssemi Aina.

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Kenya 7s head coach Benjamin Ayimba when conducting training in Nairobi.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

NAIROBI, January 12 – After silencing critics with a breathtaking performance in Cape Town 7s, Kenya Sevens head coach Benjamin Ayimba faces the toughest task of maintaining the tempo when the HSBC Sevens World Series enters the third round in Wellington.

Kenya who finished fourth at the newly introduced Cape Town 7s a month ago will be looking to finish top of their Pool D when they take on Australia, Canada and Portugal on the weekend of January 29.

However, with the teams expected to enter the tournament knowing what to expect from Shujaa, Ayimba underscored his charges are under no pressure to uphold consistency and that only positive results will prove doubters wrong.

“There is no pressure. We will grow as we had intended because we have our targets that we will meet at our own pace so we don’t have cooked victory or half cooked plans. We are building for Olympics and this is part of the growth.

“Our initial plan is to try and top the Pool. It will be exiting to top our pools as many times as possible this season but of course we have teams that are very tough, teams that on any day would beat us,” Ayimba declared when conducting training.

The team was boosted by the availability of skipper, Andrew Amonde and Africa Olympics qualifier hero, Dennis Ombachi who both missed the second leg in South Africa due to unavoidable circumstances.

The presence of the duo will necessitate the head coach to make changes in a bid to formulate a strong squad that will compete in Wellington and Australia.

“We intend to make minimal adjustments as we head to the back to back two legs. We are having full house so we will make tactical changes than looking at on form players. We don’t have fresh injuries apart from Augustine Lugonzo who is recovering well,” Ayimba  stated.

-Contract-

Kenya Rugby Union is yet to contract the players who were promised to get the new deals in November, but Ayimba drew positive out of it outlining that it will not affect their input in the field.

Title sponsors Kenya Airways up until now have not renewed their package but the Union boss, Richard Owela was upbeat the deal will be sealed soon.

“We are not on contract because nothing has been signed by any sponsor so for now we are just concentrating to getting the job done.

“We are waiting for the Board to give us an okay on what contracts to sign but we have expressed to the Union what we expect and require. As we do the job of pushing for the contract, we do the job of trying to perform well,” Ayimba explained.

He added, “With the situation that we have been in the past, we can’t really demand much but what we can do is to make sure we have good results for us to attract those guys who have been having doubt in supporting the team.”

After two rounds, Kenya are ninth in the standings on 20 points.

The post Ayimba under no pressure in Wellington 7s appeared first on Capital Sports.

Sofapaka forward John Baraza.PHOTO FILE/Courtesy

NAIROBI, January 13 – Sofapaka captain John Baraza has announced his retirement from the sport after two decades of top flight football.

The 2004 Africa Cup of Nations veteran was one of the oldest players in the Kenyan Premier League where he has been playing for Sofapaka since 2009.

Baraza took to his Facebook account to announce his retirement as he praised his former coaches and team mates who stood by him in his entire career that saw him win many awards.

“As I walk away from playing the game, I would like to say a big thank you to the people who throughout a long way in my long playing career they helped propel me into a mentionable FIGURE in the football industry, they helped me SCOOP lots of AWARDS and CHAMPIONSHIP medals.”

“So special mention to all coaches that we worked together. To the coaches Manoah, Twahir, Ghost Mulee, Salim, Zico, Kimanzi,Timbe, Davy, Kheri, Bobby, Naggi and many I wouldn’t mention.

“People, Coach Twahir Muhiddin stands out because he never gave up to show me how to score goals even when I kept on missing lots of goals , so sincerely speaking in him I got the art of scoring,”Baraza declared in part of his statement.

He added, “Thanks coach for your trust, your honesty and your passion for pursuit of excellence in me.

“In international circles I would like to thank, coach Ghost Mulee, he gave me the Chance to get on the platform and I think I did not disappoint because we won Cecafa back 2002 and went to Afcon in Tunisia 2004 and over there we managed a win which was commendable.”

Baraza has had an illustrious career which started in earnest in 1994 when he joined Oserian Fastac playing for them until 2002.

In 2003 Baraza moved to Sylvia in Sweden before making a return to Kenya where he joined Tusker and later moved to Chemelil Sugar where he played until 2005.

In 2005 Baraza crossed the border to neighbouring Tanzania where he joined Young Africans(Yanga) where he left an indelible mark scoring goals at will.

In 2006 Baraza moved to Asia where he joined Polis DRM in Malaysia playing until 2007 when he moved back to East Africa and joined Rayon Sports in Rwanda playing until 2008.

In 2009 Baraza moved back to Kenya joining Chemelil before he was lured the same year by Sofapaka as he led them to their first ever Kenyan Premier league win as debutants.

Baraza has bagged 43 caps for Kenya’s national team Harambee Stars playing a crucial role in the 2004 Africa Cup of nations where he scored against Burkina Faso.

He has bagged several awards in Kenya from the Kenyan Premier League footballer of the year award, to several golden boots awards he has been the pinnacle of the striking department for many years.

-By SuperSport.com-

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Former Cameroon superstar, Patrick M’Boma will arrive on Thursday to grace SOYA Awards slatted for Friday in Nairobi.PHOTO/FIFA.COM

NAIROBI, January 13 – Former Cameroon striker Patrick M’Boma will grace the 12th Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) where outstanding top athletes will be feted in the black tie gala night event on Friday at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.

M’Boma, the 2000 African Player of the Year is expected to arrive on Thursday evening from Paris, France courtesy of national career, Kenya Airways who will cater for his flight return ticket as part of their sponsorship for the Awards.

SOYA founder and International Olympics Committee member, Paul Tergat said the decision to bring M’Boma as the guest of honour was arrived at by the panel of judges who hope the two-time African Cup of Nations winner will inspire Kenyan sportsmen.

“M’Boma is a good friend of mine and one of the biggest footballers in our continent. We trust that his presence here will be a motivation to other sportsmen to work hard and achieve what he has achieved.

“It has been our tradition every year to bring one of the finest sportsmen in the continent to have a taste of the talent we have in Kenya,” Tergat, the former world marathon record holder, announced.

The Indomitable Lions legend led Cameroon to the summer Olympics gold medal in 2000 in Sydney Australia as well as Cup of Nations victory in 2000 and 2002.

M’Boma, a former PSG forward (1994-95 and 1996-97) featured in the 1998 and 2000 World Cups and is always remembered by his stunning overhead kick goal against France in 1998.

The public voting closed on Tuesday night and the judges have a completed list of winners in all 20 categories.

Footballer of the Year and Gor Mahia striker Michael Olunga will face world beaters, javelin star, Julius Yego, track champions Asbel Kiprop and Geoffrey Kamworor and hockey star, Linus Sang for the best male sportsman of the year gong.

The corresponding Sportswoman category features Nune Bonaya (shooting), Mercy Moim (volleyball), Naomi Wafula (golf) and famed champion distance runners; Gladys Cherono and Florence Kiplagat underlining the diversity on show for 2015.

Former KCB forward Paul Mungai Kiongera has been nominated for the comeback of the year award alongside rugby player Lawrence Buyachi from Nakuru RFC.

Domestic club football champions, Gor Mahia who held on to their crown unbeaten last year will vie against Simba 15s national rugby, KCB rugby, national hockey team and Harambee Stars in the men’s Team of the Year category.

Volleyball dominates the women’s nominations with the Malkia Strikers teams for the African and World Grand Prix competing with the squad largely consisting Under 23 players that won the 2015 All Africa Games.

The awards received another shot in the arm with the Communications Authority of Kenya handing in a Sh1m sponsorship boost.

The post Cameroon’s M’Boma to grace SOYA Awards appeared first on Capital Sports.

Rwandan striker, Jacques Tuyisenge. PHOTO FILE/Courtesy.

NAIROBI, January 13 – Champions Gor Mahia have finalized the signing of Rwandan forward Jacques Tuyisenge on a two-year deal from Kiyovu Sports Association FC.

Tuyisenge’s arrival at the record 15 times champions will be a major boost after the uncertainty surrounding Ugandan-born former Rwandan forward Meddie Kagere and Footballer of the Year Michael Olunga who is set to depart for Sweden to attend Trials at Djurgårdens IF.

Club assistant secretary general Ronald Ngala told Capital Sport they opted for Tuyisenge instead of Kagere who had accepted to renew his contract but on a one-year deal.

Tuyisenge will link up with the rest of the squad once the African Nations Championships (CHAN) concludes in Kigali where Rwanda are drawn in Pool A alongside Gabon, Ivory Coast and Morocco.

“We are done with signing Jacques Tuyisenge from Rwanda and he will be joining us later after CHAN competitions. He signed a two year contract and he will be a great addition to our team to bolster our attack line.

“Kagere’s deal was complicated because he asked us to give him more time and his uncertainty made us research for his replacement. Both Kagere and Tuyisenge accepted our terms almost at the same time but we had to settle for Tuyisenge because he was signing for two years,” Ngala underscored.

However, Tuyisenge will not be included in the CAF list that is set to be submitted on Thursday since he will still be participating in CHAN.

“The unfortunate thing is that we will not have him (Tuyisenge) for our CAF matches unless we reach the group stages so we hope the squad that we will register tomorrow will reach there for Tuyisenge to play.

“In Olunga’s case, he told us he was going for Trials and if he succeeds he will not come back but if he does he will join us, so his name is in the CAF list. We have given him until the transfer window closes,” Ngala stated.

The capture of Tuyisenge means Gor have exhausted the required number of foreign players by Kenya Premier League but the assistant secretary general outlined the window is still open for locally based players only if head coach, Frank Nuttall will need more.

Tuyisenge is the latest signing by the three-peat champions after acquiring the services of Jacob Keli from Zambia’s Nkana FC.

K’Ogalo who will open their CAF Champions league campaign with a home tie against Madagascar’s CNaPS on the weekend of February 13 in the first-leg of the preliminary round, are in Ethiopia to compete in the St George’s 80th anniversary tournament.

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Tusker FC head coach Paul Nkata issuing instructions to his players when the team lost 1-0 to Niger in a friendly match on Tuesday, January 12, 2016. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

NAIROBI, January 13 – Once in every lifetime someone has to put his reputation on the line. This season, it is the turn of Paul Nkata to make a date with his destiny as his coaching credentials will be put to test after the Ugandan was bestowed with the task of guiding Tusker FC regain its lost glory.

Nkata who was officially unveiled as the Brewers head coach on Wednesday alongside his assistant George Owoko and eight new players, is looking at changing the style of play at  the club that will help them win the SportPesa Premier League for the first time since 2012.

The former Muhoroni Youth coach who has recruited eight new experienced players among them his son Fred Nkata, is hoping to produce high quality players that will do duty for their respective national teams.

“I’m going to change the style of play and I’m intending to use the format Uganda is using, this business of playing long ball is going to be delimited so do expect a good football this season.

“This is our year. I’m going to introduce the Barcelona way of play to ensure we keep the ball moving. My philosophy is one of the easiest, it’s going to take two weeks for the players to adapt we have already done one week and most of the players are happy,” Nkata who penned down a two-year deal stated.

“I want to take a player from one level to another so that five or more can be called to the national team unlike the past. My task is to win all the trophies available but if I get one it will be a motivation to start with,” The 53-year-old who has over 30 years of coaching experience, added.

-Ndolo comeback-

2014 Footballer of the Year Ekaliani Ndolo posing when Tusker FC unveiled its new players on Wednesday, January 13, 2016. PHOTO/ Raymond Makhaya.

Sofapaka midfielder, Ekaliani Ndolo, the 2014 Footballer of the Year is among the players that moved to the Ruaraka based side alongside former French’s OGC Nice FC midfielder, Luis Misiko, keeper David Okello, Collins Shivachi (Sofapaka), Jackson Macharia (Thika United), Shafik Batambuze (Western Stima) and Martin Kiiza who rejoined the side from AFC Leopards.

Ndolo who will want to erase the memories of 2015 as quickly as possible after flopping last season, is hoping to regain his form back at Tusker and possibly fight to win the Most Valuable Player for a second time.

The midfielder who had a two-year stint at Batoto Ba Mungu, pointed out that his downfall was contributed due to lack of finance at Sofapaka, something that led to a mass exodus during the June transfer window.

“Joining Tusker was the right move at the right time. For the past two years we experienced hard times financially so after my contract ended I thought it was the right move to regain my form.

“Last season we played most of our games without training and that made the form of many players drop so it’s not only me. At Sofapaka we could not give it our all because of lack of motivation but just to help the team finish in a respectable position,” Ndolo who is now playing his third season in KPL told Capital Sport.

Ndolo who penned down a two-year contract at Tusker was upbeat the class of 2016 has what it takes to win a trophy.

“The squad is good because we were together with most of the players at Sofapaka so I think we know each other well and we have an experienced coach, if he puts us together we shall perform to the fullest,” he added.

Nkata revealed the club is at an advanced talks with winger Timonah Wanyonyi who is expected to finalise his move by Friday.

At the end of last year, Tusker released winger Kevin Kimani, defender Jockins Atudo,Jesse Were, Emmanuel Ngama, Aziz Kemba, Fredrick Onyango. Dennis Nzomo, Dennis Ng’ang’a and Abdalla Juma.

Tusker finished fifth last season under the tutelage of former Harambee Stars head coach, Francis Kimanzi who is now with Mathare United.

The post This is our season! Tusker’s Nkata warns appeared first on Capital Sports.

WADA. PHOTO/FILE

ITEN, January 13 – Top Kenyan athletes hard at work in high-altitude training in the Rift Valley town of Iten remain hopeful that Thursday’s publication of a second WADA report into corruption and doping in track and field will not disrupt their preparations for the Rio Olympics.

Athletes have hit the ground running ahead of the outdoor season, oblivious of the consequences of the report which could reveal the state of doping in the east African nation.

But they are optimistic Kenya will not go the Russian way and potentially miss out on competing in August’s Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

“I don’t think Kenya will be banned,” said legendary athletics coach Colm O’Connell in Iten.

“I don’t think, and of course I am hoping, doping is not systematic in Kenya. There is no evidence that I can say the (athletics) federation or the government or anybody have been systematically  involved in promoting it.

“The case in Kenya seems to be officials here and there, either on their own or with assistance from a coach, an agent or a doctor, decided to take drugs,” said the Irish-born tactician, who has coached more than 20 Kenyan Olympic champions including 800 metre star David Rudisha.

O’Connell added: “I am hoping the report will give us a way forward for our athletes, and even beyond Rio. This is going to take much longer than Rio for Kenya to regain its reputation and credibility of its performances.

“It’s not going to go away soon, but I am hoping the report will give very specific clarifications of what the IAAF and the sporting world expect of Kenya.”

Rudisha insisted that the athletes had been totally in the dark about doping allegations, but warned it would be unfortunate if most of the Kenyan runners who were innocent were made to suffer for those who were found guilty of doping offences.

“As sports people we feel really bad. Whenever we hear about these things (doping) happening in Kenya, it is really disappointing since Kenya is known for having great athletes who have been winning titles for many years by running clean,” Rudisha told AFP.

Former world 3,000m steeplechase world record holder and three-time world champion Moses Kiptanui said he was happy to know the extent of how much doping had tainted Kenyan athletics, should it be revealed in the WADA independent commission report.

“It has taken too long for Kenya to accept that doping was a problem. When I raised the issue a few years ago, people thought I was crazy,” said Kiptanui.

“Now that everything has been revealed I am a happy man. Not because people have been suspended or have been banned for life, but because the truth has finally come out.”

But Kiptanui, who been critical about how Athletics Kenya (AK) handled the drug issue, believes Kenya will not be banned from the Rio Olympics.

“I think it is going to be difficult to ban Kenya from the Olympics because the scenario we have here is different from Russia,” said Kiptanui.

He warned that athletes found guilty of doping should be given a life ban and officials who were involved in the cover-up of doping allegations jailed.

“More than 40 Kenyan athletes have been suspended in the last two years. We still have good athletes who are winning races and they are clean and we need to protect them. If we don’t do anything about this doping issue, the sport will go to the dogs.

“They need to punish people, even banning them for life. I would agree to that a hundred percent,” Kiptanui said.

Two-time world marathon champion and Olympic silver medallist Abel Kirui warned that negative repercussions from the WADA report could hit hard the pockets of thousands of athletes who relied on the sport for their livelihood.

“Kenyan athletes may not be accepted to compete in races overseas since the race organisers would tend to think we are not clean. This is going to give us a bad reputation,” said Kirui.

Kenya has been under great scrutiny from anti-doping officials and face heavy criticism that it was not doing enough to tackle the problem.

In December, three top Athletics Kenya (AK) officials including the president Isaiah Kiplagat, deputy president David Okeyo and former treasurer Joseph Kinyua were suspended by the IAAF Athics Commission for alleged corruption and cover-up of doping issues.

The post Kenyan athletes hope WADA spares them appeared first on Capital Sports.

Geoffrey Kipsang Kamworor (front) leads Bedan Karoki and Paul Tanui (partly hidden) across the line in the men 10000m final on Saturday. PHOTO/Raymond Mokhaya

NAIROBI, January 14 – Cross-country competitions will be taking a decisive turn this weekend when two of the sixteen Athletics Kenya branches run their national championships in Thika and in Nairobi.

World cross-country champion Geoffrey Kamworor will lead a deep field in the National Police service championships that will run on Saturday at Nairobi’s Ngong’ Race Course.

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) will precede the competitions on Friday, with veteran Mark Kiptoo and Leonard Oloitiptip leading the entry list that will start with a 21KM Road Race in Thika.

Though the elite athletes would be setting their targets beyond the Africa Cross Country Championships, their participation in the local events is paramount as they select teams for amassing points during the inter-affiliates in Nairobi mid in February.

“Both the KDF and Kenya National Police championships are part of the duties of the athletes and they are required to compete for their units. We shall be seeing the best doing their best,” said Sammy Rono, who is tasked with following up the cross-country running programs.

Of the two disciplines forces, the Police unit is boasting of the top cream of the country’s runners and the championships will herald a mini-trial that would be replayed during the nationals that would be used to select team to the 4th Africa Cross-country championships scheduled for Yaounde, Cameroon on March 12.

Last year, Kamworor beat Mathew Kisorio and Moses Mukono during the Police National Cross Country championships while in the women’s race, Stacy Ndiwa was crowned winner ahead of Janet Kisa and distant world champion Vivian Cheruiyot who was making a comeback from maternity leave.

After the seven-legged cross-country series concluded at Kabianga University last Saturday, focus now revert to the championships proper with the two Athletics Kenya branches kick-starting the grass root competitions.

Other branches to follow include Kenya Prisons Service on January 23 at Uhuru Gardens, Kenya Universities championships on 30th at Kabarak in Nakuru the same day the regional Championships will conduct theirs.

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Rita Jeptoo when she won her second Chicago title. PHOTO/File

NAIROBI, January 14 – Kenya “clearly” has a doping problem in athletics thar may need a new investigation, World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) inquiry chief and former head of the body; Richard Pound said Thursday when releasing the publication of a second report into corruption and a leaked blood database.

Pound told a press conference he had not been able to look into Kenya or other suspect countries because he only had a mandate to investigate doping in Russia.

“We know that there is a problem. We have not investigated Kenya that was not part of our mandate.

“There may be some other independent commission that would have a look at Kenya once some of the smoke clears. But we were not authorised to go any further with that but there is clearly a problem,” Pound underscored.

More than 40 Kenyan athletes have been suspended for doping in the past two years.

In December, three top Athletics Kenya (AK) officials including president Isaiah Kiplagat, deputy president, David Okeyo and former treasurer, Joseph Kinyua, were suspended by the IAAF Ethics Commission for alleged corruption and covering up doping.

In a rejoinder, Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Arts and Culture, Dr. Hassan Wario said the Ministry is studying the report and will only issue appropriate response if there is any Kenyan athlete mentioned in the report.

“The Government of Kenya acknowledges the WADA report issued today and will study its findings and observations in detail.

“The report that has been released does not mention Kenya adversely but we are still waiting for it to trickle in and see if there is any mention of Kenya or Kenyan athlete at any point and it’s at that point that we will be able to give appropriate response,” the minister declared.

Fears that the country would receive severe sanctions such as those meted on Russia were allayed by the report but it does not mean Kenya was exonerated from citation as a haven of doping concern.

Wario, who summoned top AK officials led by president, Lt. Gen (Rtd) Jack Tuwei to his office, announced the Government has developed a draft legislation that provides legal guidelines for dealing with doping which will include punishment and penalties for any violations.

The legislation that outlines clear responsibility for Anti Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) that was gazetted on December 24 was overseen by WADA officials and is new waiting to be submitted to parliament to de debated and enacted into law in the coming weeks.

“We have a robust policy on doping that will hand severe punishment for officials found culpable for any violation, this will be presented to cabinet very soon for review and approval.

“The Government will not, and does not tolerate doping of any sort in Kenyan sport and will take action against anyone proven to contravene national or international sporting rules,” Wario added.

Being an Olympic year, the minister urged the new AK leadership to eradicate the doping menace and ensure finest athletes are selected to compete at the Summer Games to be held in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil in August.

“Kenyan athletes are known all over in the world for the finest long distance running. Our athletes are our Ambassadors around the globe and we are committed to ensuring that all athletes who represent this proud nation compete fairly and cleanly at all times, upholding high levels of integrity that is expected of all Kenyans by our government.”

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Former Cameroon forward Patrick M’Boma when addressing the media on his arrival in Nairobi on 14th January, 2016. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

NAIROBI, January 14 – Victor Wanyama might have put his failed transfer attempt from Southampton to Tottenham behind him but former Cameroon striker Patrick M’Boma believes it could have been great if the Harambee Stars captain joined Spurs.

M’Boma who is in the country as the chief guest of Friday’s Safaricom Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA), described Wanyama as a good example that Africa can produce, predicting he will be the best in the continent in the coming years.

Wanyama was keen to move to White Hart Lane earlier in the season but the St Mary’s club insisted he was not for sale and has been linked with another move in this January transfer window.

“Wanyama is an important player in Kenyan football, I first saw him when I was commentating in a Champions League game in Glasgow and he played quite well and now he is in a better league so it’s good for Kenya.

“Wanyama is a good example of what Africa can produce somebody who can run everywhere in the midfield, he can go from box to box. He has the discipline, let’s wait for a few years and you will see him growing to become among the best in the continent,” M’Boma who won the 2000 Olympics Games with the Indomitable Lions illustrated.

“It will be a good thing for him to be more recognised because if I go to France and I ask people if they know Wanyama almost half of them will say they don’t because they are not following the club he is playing for so if he moves to a team that everybody follows I’m sure it will be great for him,” the 45-year-old who leaves in France stated.

On matters concerning Football Kenya Federation national elections that are scheduled to be held on February 10 in Nairobi, M’Boma pointed out that only officials who have the interest of the sport in heart will enable the national team Harambee stars compete with top football nations in the continent.

“Kenyan football like all the 53 federations in Africa has to be helped to improve not only asking the association presidents but it’s a collective responsibility from all stakeholders to make the growth possible.

“I understand the elections were supposed to be held in December but were postponed. In my opinion, I think Kenya has to ask support from FIFA but of course you need to have experience people because results come from a good organisation,” M’Boma, a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner, outlined.

He believes Frenchman Jerome Champagne is the next FIFA president to replace suspended long serving Sepp Blatter in the world governing body that has been tainted by corruption.

“I would like Champagne to win the upcoming FIFA elections because he knows African football and it should be a good connection to help the Kenyan FA grow. He is willing to increase the number of teams in the world from five.”

-CAF Awards-

Former Cameroon striker Patrice Mboma arrives at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on 14th January, 2016. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

The 2000 African Footballer of the Year did not read from the same script as Ivory Coast and Manchester City midfielder, Yaya Toure that Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang did not deserve to win the award.

“Awards are prestigious and I understand Yaya Toure and Andre Ayew dissatisfaction because Aubameyang won. In this type of awards, it’s not decided by one person since everyone has his or her own opinions.

“Sometimes we have expectations that don’t go our way. In football the most difficult thing is to score goals and when somebody score a lot of goals he is always regarded as the best and that’s the reason I was nominated in 2000 because I scored important goals but that has nothing to do with the quality of Aubameyang who deserved the award,” The sports analyst with a French channel, explained.

When it comes to the 1998 World Cup many people remember France lifting the prestigious title at home soil but no one can forget M’Boma’s memorable overhead kick goal against France which he says is one among his highlights in his career.

“I won the Olympics it’s a memorable moment, I also won the AFCON twice but the first one in 2000 was amazing since we beat hosts Nigeria in penalties to become champions. Also playing against big names like George Weah, Fabio Cannavaro and Gianluigi Buffon was something amazing.

“The over kick goal I scored against France was unforgettable. It was the only goal I scored and it was important because we were Olympics and African champions while France were both World and European champions so they were a great opponent.

“We played in France where I grew up and there is nothing best I could do than what I did for Cameroon, so for me it was only a friendly game,” M’Boma who featured for PSG, Parma and Sunderland among others concluded.

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Geoffrey Mutai stuns with a jaw-dropping 2:03:02 run in Boston.

BOSTON, January 15 – Kenyans Geoffrey Mutai and Wesley Korir have announced their return to this year’s Boston Marathon scheduled for April 18.

Following last month’s announcement that Lelisa Desisa will defend his title, 2011 winner Mutai and 2012 champion Korir will confirmed  participation, forming an elite men’s field that includes 10 runners with PBs faster than 2:06.

Following his 2011 win in 2:03:02 on Boston’s record-ineligible course, Mutai won the New York City Marathon later that year in 2:05:06, smashing the course record by nearly three minutes.

He recorded an official PB of 2:04:15 when winning in Berlin in 2012 and then regained his New York City Marathon title in 2013.

Before winning the Boston Marathon in 2012, Korir had twice won the Los Angeles Marathon. He also has five top-five finishes at the Chicago Marathon.

Yemane Tsegay and Wilson Chebet will also be returning to Boston, hoping to improve on their respective second and third-place finishes from last year.

Tsegay is the world silver medallist and has won marathons in Rotterdam, Ottawa, Daegu and Eindhoven. Chebet is a three-time winner in Amsterdam and a winner in Rotterdam.

After finishing second in Chicago for the past two years, Sammy Kitwara hopes that Boston will be the scene of his first marathon victory. His PB of 2:04:28 makes him the second-fastest man in the field.

Ethiopia’s Tsegaye Mekonnen ran 2:04:32 on his debut at the distance to win the 2014 Dubai Marathon while still a teenager. The Boston Marathon will be Mekonnen’s first race on US soil.

Getu Feleke is the sixth and last of the sub-2:05 men in the field. The 2010 Amsterdam winner set his PB of 2:04:50 when finishing second in Rotterdam in 2012.

Others in the field include 2015 Dubai champion Hayle Lemi Berhanu, Stephen Chebogut and Deribe Robi, the winner and runner-up respectively of last year’s Eindhoven Marathon, 2012 Tokyo Marathon winner Michael Kipyego, and Uganda’s Jackson Kiprop, the 10th-place finisher at the past two World Championships marathons.

Gelana set for Boston debut

Such is the quality of the women’s field, defending champion Caroline Rotich is only the 10th-fastest runner in the line-up.

Olympic champion Tiki Gelana has the fastest PB of the field. The 28-year-old, who holds the Ethiopian record of 2:18:58, will be making her Boston marathon debut. A strong performance could put her in line for Olympic selection.

Gelana will be joined in Boston by compatriots Buzunesh Deba, Tirfe Tsegaye, Mamitu Daska, Atsede Baysa and Tadelech Bekele.

Deba finished second in Boston in 2014 and third last year. Tsegaye has won marathons in Berlin, Tokyo, Paris and Dubai. Daska, a past winner over 10km and the half marathon in Boston, won the 2011 Frankfurt Marathon. Baysa has twice won in both Chicago and Paris. Bekele set her PB of 2:22:51 in Dubai last year.

Latvia’s two-time New York Marathon winner Jelena Prokopcuka will be making her fifth Boston Marathon appearance.

African and Commonwealth 10,000m champion Joyce Chepkirui was the only top-10 finisher from last year’s Boston Marathon to set a PB. She went on to smash her best with a 2:24:11 victory in Amsterdam.

Also in the field are 2013 Amsterdam winner Valentine Kipketer, Commonwealth champion Flomena Cheyech Daniel, Lisbon Marathon champion Purity Rionoripo, 2014 Beijing Marathon winner Fatuma Sado and two-time Vienna Marathon champion Fate Tola.

USA’s Neely Spence Gracey will make her highly anticipated marathon debut in Boston. Last year she set a half-marathon PB of 1:09:59.

Elite field (with PBs)

Men

Geoffrey Mutai (KEN) 2:04:15 (2:03:02)

Sammy Kitwara (KEN) 2:04:28

Tsegaye Mekonnen (ETH) 2:04:32

Lelisa Desisa (ETH) 2:04:45

Yemane Adhane Tsegay (ETH) 2:04:48

Getu Feleke (ETH) 2:04:50

Wilson Chebet (KEN) 2:05:27

Hayle Lemi Berhanu (ETH) 2:05:28

Stephen Chebogut (KEN) 2:05:52

Deribe Robi (ETH) 2:05:58

Wesley Korir (KEN) 2:06:13

Michael Kipyego (KEN) 2:06:48

Paul Lonyangata (KEN) 2:07:14

Jackson Kiprop (UGA) 2:09:32

Cuthbert Nyasango (ZIM) 2:09:52

Abdi Nageeye (NED) 2:10:24

Abdelmajid El Hissouf (MAR) 2:10:35

Solonei Da Silva (BRA) 2:11:32

Jordan Chipangama (ZAM) 2:11:35

Ian Burrell (USA) 2:13:26

Girma Mecheso (USA) debut

Women

Tiki Gelana (ETH) 2:18:58

Buzunesh Deba (ETH) 2:19:59

Tirfi Tsegaye (ETH) 2:20:18

Mamitu Daska (ETH) 2:21:59

Atsede Baysa (ETH) 2:22:03

Flomena Cheyech Daniel (KEN) 2:22:44

Tadelech Bekele (ETH) 2:22:51

Jelena Prokopcuka (LAT) 2:22:56

Valentine Kipketer (KEN) 2:23:02

Caroline Rotich (KEN) 2:23:22

Joyce Chepkirui (KEN) 2:24:11

Fatuma Sado (ETH) 2:24:16

Purity Cherotich Rionoripo (KEN) 2:25:09

Fate Tola (ETH) 2:25:14

Lamei Sun (CHN) 2:27:55

Sarah Crouch (USA) 2:32:44

Neely Spence Gracey (USA) debut

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Moses Kiptanui. PHOTO/FILE COURTESY

ELDORET, Kenya, January 15 – Kenyan steeplechase star Moses Kiptanui has accused the top leadership of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) of complacency in fighting corruption and doping that have rocked the sport.

The former three-time 3,000m steeplechase champion and world record holder wondered why IAAF supremo Sebastian Coe and vice-president Sergey Bubka did not raise any alarm over the many ills in world athletics’ governing body during the tenure of former president Lamine Diack.

Senegalese Diack was accused in a WADA report on Thursday of organising “conspiracy and corruption” at the heart of the federation and also sanctioned fraud and extortion of athletes during his 16-year tenure.

“Sebastian Coe has been there eight years as vice-president (and also Bubka). He didn’t smell anything was wrong in the IAAF?” Kiptanui told AFP in an interview.

He said the credibility of Coe to steer the IAAF had been dented but added that the Briton, who himself was a world 800m record holder, must move fast to restore order in the federation if “he wants people to believe he’s a good person.”

Kiptanui said the malpractices in the IAAF were mirrored in Kenya, where three top officials of the national athletics federation were suspended in December over corruption and doping cover-up allegations.

“It is the leadership in Athletics Kenya (AK) that has badly let down the athletes,” he said. “The officials are not ready to provide that leadership and were not interested in the fight against doping”.

The Kenyan said the law on doping should be changed to allow athletes caught to have doped to be banned for life.

“Two years is nothing,” said Kiptanui. “They can still come back strongly… like in the case of American sprinter (Justin) Gatlin. He’s been suspended twice, yet he’s running even stronger than before. So what have we achieved here?”

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Javelin star Julius Yego (Center) when being named SOYA 2015 winner. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, January 15 – Javelin superstar, world champion Julius Yego was the biggest winner of the night after clinching the double by being crowned the 2015 overall Safaricom Sports Personality of the Year (SOYA) in a glittering annual black tie gala award ceremony in Nairobi on Friday.

Yego who became the first Kenyan world champion outside track and marathon when he won gold in Beijing, was also named the Sportsman of the year while world 3000m Steeplechase champion Hyvin Kiyeng bagged the corresponding women’s award.

Yego or the ‘YouTube man as he is popularly known was voted ahead of middle distance runner, Asbel Kiprop who had a stellar season winning his third back-to-back world title in Beijing as well as world cross champion, Geoffrey Kamworor.

The event which was graced by former Cameroon forward and Olympic winner, Patrick M’Boma, saw the track and field athletes dominate with world 400m Hurdles winner Nicholas Bett scooping the most outstanding performance of the year ahead of Kabras Rugby Club.

Delighted Yego, the Commonwealth champion said winning the accolade was a sign of appreciation after having a fruitful season that saw him set four national and two African records on his way to making history with his biggest throw of 92.72m in Beijing.

“This is a huge moment for me and for our sport in Kenya. It has been really an amazing season for me starting in Doha Diamond League up to the World Championships which i won.

“I appreciate all those who voted for me as it has shown my tireless work in the field of javelin has been recognised. Winning this award is not easy because we had many competitors but I thank the panel of judges for having considered me as the favourite,” the African champion underscored.

Yego urged the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Arts and Culture Dr. Hassan Wario to keep on fighting doping in the country after cases of the menace spiked up in Kenya attracting the attention of world governing body, IAAF after World Anti Doping Agency inquiry chief and former head of the body; Richard Pound said Kenya “clearly” has a doping problem.

“Our Cabinet Secretary has really assisted us in fighting doping, I urge you to keep fighting and we know we will succeed because it’s really tarnishing our sport. We are doing the awards but issues of doping will come up at some point and that will kill the pride of our country,” Yego who was named last Year’s Athletics Kenya best male, said.

-Kiyeng-

Hyvin Kiyeng receiving her Sportswoman title. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

Kiyeng who had a wonderful performance last year in winning her first world championship is hoping to continue with the same at this year’s Olympics Games in Rio

“Winning this award is a morale booster so that I can go and work harder. I’m very pleased because getting this accolade is not easy and I thank everyone who voted for me.

“I had a successful season last year so I’m hoping to have a good outing too in Olympics,” the 24-year-old who will compete at Saturday’s Police Cross Country Championships, stated.

Kiyeng emerged the winner from a strong competition that consisted of Kenya Women Volleyball team attacker Mercy Moim who was a source of inspiration at the Africa Nations Cup, World Grand Prix and world Cup as Commonwealth 10,000m silver medallist, Florence Kiplagat was third.

Newly introduced Ever Green category went to steeplechase great Ezekiel Kemboi who claimed his fourth successive world tile in Beijing.

It was a wonderful night for unbeaten SportPesa Premier League champions Gor Mahia who bagged the Sports team of the Year Award, beating National Hockey team and Rugby’s Kenya Simba 15’s.

Malkia Strikers edged out their juniors, Kenya under-23 volleyball team that won gold at the All Africa Games as Telkom Orange Hockey team who lifted their fourth successive African title were third.

Special Olympics gold medallist, Onesmus Mutinda was the named the sportswoman with a disability while Susan Gatwiri who also won gold on Special Olympics taking the men’s award.

As expected world cross country champion, Agnes Tirop topped the girl’s Most Promising Award with World Youth, African and Commonwealth Youth 1500m champion Kumari Taki named the Most Promising boy.

Returning Nakuru RFC back-row Lawrence Buyachi, beat former KCB and Gor forward Paul Kiongera as well as swimmer, Emily Muteti to win the Comeback award.

Nairobi’s Laiser Hill Academy, the national Rugby hampions and East Africa Hockey champions, Sinyolo Girls were the school winners.

The winners were selected by a panellist made up of sports journalists with the public voting through an SMS platform for the sportsman, sportswoman and the teams.

-Winners-

Overall sportsman: Julius Yego (Javelin)

Sportsman of the Year: Julius Yego

Sportswoman of the Year: Hyvin Kiyeng (Athletics)

Ever Green : Ezekiel Kemboi (Athletics)

Outstanding performers: Nicholas Bett

Sports team of the year men: Gor Mahia

Sports team of the year women: Kenya Women Volleyball team (Malkia Strikers)

Sportswoman with a disability: Susan Gatwiri

Sportsman with a disability: Onesmus Mutinda

Schools team boys: Laiser Hill Academy

Schools team Girls: Sinyolo Girls

Coach of the year: David Lung’aho (Malkia Strikers)

Community Hero: Ednah Rotich (Beach Volleyball)

Comeback Award: Lawrence Buyachi (Rugby)

Most Promising boys: Kumari Taki (Athletics)

Most Promising girls: Agnes Tirop (Athletics)

Sports Federation of the Year: Kenya Volleyball Federation.

Outstanding performer boy: David Paristao

Outstanding performer girl: Judy Nkatha

Hall of Fame : Brian Hokins (Shooting), Late Violet Baraza (Volleyball), Late John Mucheru (Golf)

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World Cross champion Geoffrey Kamworor celebrates after winning the National Police Service Cross Country Championships at Nairobi’s Rce Course. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, January 16 – World champions Geoffrey Kamworor and Vivian Cheruiyot won the Kenya Police cross country championships at Nairobi’s Ngong’ Racecourse on Saturday.

Kamworor, the world cross champion won his fourth men’s police cross country title in a row as Cheruiyot reclaimed the women’s crown in tightly contested races.

Competing in his first race since winning silver in the men’s 10,000m at the Beijing World Championships, Kamworor led from gun to tape facing less opposition from highly rated rivals to win in 30:52.7.

Commonwealth Games 1500m champion Augustine Choge came in second 31:30.01 while world 1500m champion Asbel Kiprop completed the podium finish by returning 31:49.01.

Kamworor and Asbel broke from the pack just after the gun before the metric mile champion found the going tough after 6km to succumb and trail the leader same as Commonwealth 5000m gold medalist Caleb Mwangangi Ndiku and Choge.

Choge caught up with Asbel after 5km and overtook him to maintain the second spot to the finishing line.

In the women’s race, Cheruiyot who is slowly returning to top form after reclaiming her world 10000m title, led all the way from the start to finish to stop the timer in 36:29.9.

All Games 5000m gold medallist Margaret Chelimo was second clocking 36:30.01 as world 3000m steeplechase champion Hyvin Kiyeng settled for third in 36:34.03.

Cheruiyot and Kamworor said they will not take part in the Africa Cross Country Championships slated for March in Yaounde, Cameroon.

Kamworor underscored that he will participate at the national cross country championships and then focus on the World Half Marathon and Olympics.

Cheruiyot declared her main focus are the 2016 Rio Olympics and at least one road race in preparation for the Summer Games to be hosted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in August.

Western retained the overall title with 25 points ahead of Kenya Police College in second place by scoring 29 as General Service Unit (GSU) settled for bronze with 58 points.

Overall results

Men

1 Geoffrey Kamworor    30:52.7

2 Augustine Choge   31:30.1

3 Asbel Kiprop 31:47.1

4 Josephat Bett 31:53.2

5 Johnson Nakari 31:57.5

6 Caleb Mwangangi 32:00.1

7 Peter Kirui 32:05.1

8 Philemon Rono 32:14.7

9 Paul Kipsiele Koech 32:17.5

Women

1 Vivian Cheruiyot 36:29.9

2 Magaret Chelumi 36:30.1

3 Hyvin Kiyeng  36:34.3

4 Janet Kisa 36:47.5

5 Linet Masai 36:49.6

6 Lydia Rotich 36:54.9

7 Pascalia Chepkorir 37:09.9

8 Virginia Nyambura 37:15.8

9 Isabela Ochichi 37:25.3

10 Getrude Jepchichir 37:27.1

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Veteran and former Kenya 7s skipper Humphrey Kayange with the ball in a training session.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, January 18 – After missing the opening two legs of the 2015-16 HSBC Sevens World Series, veteran Humphrey Kayange will be available for selection when Kenya 7s head coach Benjamin Ayimba names his 12-man squad for Wellington and Sydney rounds.

Kayange who last featured in the team in May when Shujaa won Bowl at London 7s under the then coach Felix ‘Totti’ Ochieng, has been racing against time to find back his fitness that will see him play under Ayimba for the first time since the tactician’s re-appointment in September last year.

Ayimba who is looking to make at least four changes from the squad that finished fourth in Cape Town told Capital Sport the former skipper has recovered and will be available for consideration for the two legs that begin with Wellington on the weekend of January 30-31 before travelling to Sydney a week later.

“Kayange is recovering well and his response in training has been commendable. He will be available for selection. I will not make many changes, maybe two but there is a new surprise that many don’t expect.

“It’s a good squad that we have put together considering we don’t have injuries thanks to the good job that our strength and conditioning coach, Geoffrey Kimani has done,” Ayimba revealed.

Kayange was upbeat to regain his top form that saw him return to the sport in March last year at Hong Kong 7s after being sidelined for three months to undergo a ligament surgery following an injury he picked in Glasgow Commonwealth Games in July, 2014.

“I’m much better in terms of recovery because I have played some matches in the Kenya Cup and sevens circuit and I think my body is responding well, I’m trying to see if I will regain my top form back.

“The shift results from Dubai to Cape Town were unbelievable and that shows the potential in the team. Change of mentality made the boys achieve great performance in South Africa. The young guys are coming up well and in the next two or three seasons they will be the guys tearing apart the sevens circuit,” Kayange the elder brother to Kenya’s all-time try scorer Collins Injera, underscored.

Kenya is pooled in a relatively fair Group D alongside Canada, Australia and Portugal but Ayimba pointed out they will not down play any team as they look on to reaching the Main Cup semi-finals.

“The plan is to continue where we left and I think we have a good chance to top our pool that is favourable although there is no easier team,” Ayimba stated.

Kayange who grounded three tries in four tournaments last year (Hong Kong, Tokyo, Glasgow and London) exuded confidence on the team that will be selected.

“We don’t want to underestimate anyone. Our focus is in the opening match against Canada where it will be good if we began on a high.

“To the team that will be named they know what work they have to do. We are in a tricky pool but we are capable of qualifying to the Cup quarters,” Kayange said.

Among influential players expected back are skipper Andrew Amonde who missed South Africa trip after he was bereaved and Africa Olympics qualifiers hero, winger Dennis Ombachi who was unavailable since he was graduating from college.

The team is scheduled to depart for New Zealand on Sunday (January 24).

The post Kayange available for Wellington 7s selection appeared first on Capital Sports.

Returning Kenya 7s captain, Andrew Amonde (right) during the naming of the travelling squad to Wellington and Sydney 7s alongside KRU CEO, Ronald Bukusi. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, JANUARY 19 – After five months of waiting, the national Sevens team have something to smile after Kenya Airways agreed to title-sponsor the team until the end of the season.

The agreement with Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) sees the national carrier continue being the team’s official shirt sponsor covering salaries, allowances, insurance and bonuses.

KRU are set to meet the team to discus contract terms which the Union CEO, Ronald Bukusi, said will either be done before it departs for the third round of the HSBC Sevens World Series in Wellington Sevens or after they return from the fourth leg in Sydney.

“Player’s welfare has been our greatest concern and its probably the reason why it has taken a while to sort this matter. It’s not easy to look for sponsors and we have done our best.

“We have been communicating with the team to update them on every step on the negotiations. It’s not true to say players have not been paid allowances because we have done our best and paid them some money,” Bukusi announced on Tuesday when the team to Wellington and Sydney 7s was named.

The players have had no contracts since last September but that did not impede them when they won the Africa Rio 2016 Olympics qualifiers before opening their World Sevens Circuit in Dubai and Cape Town 7s in South Africa where they roared to fourth.

The union is in discussions for a shorts sponsor to cater for other expenses not covered under the revised agreement with the airliner.

 -Ombachi omission-

National seven-aside team player Dennis Ombachi in action during their training session at BrookHouse School.Photo/Raymond Makhaya

Meanwhile, Ayimba has moved to defend his decision to leave out Africa Olympics qualifiers hero; winger Dennis Ombachi in his 12-man travelling squad that will do duty in Wellington and Sydney legs on the weekend of January 30-31 and February 6-7.

The head coach who handed Nakuru RFC’s Donald Oluoch his debut; revealed Ombachi who missed Cape Town round to graduate from college, was not fit to for the tour.

“The team that has been named is the best and the fittest that we could get from the pack. Ombachi had some commitments after the qualifiers, so there are people in the squad who have trained more than him and are looking fitter.

“We have that chance to expose one young player, it is Donald’s (Oluoch) time, he has shown a lot of potential,” Ayimba described.

Skipper Andrew Amonde returns to the squad while veteran and former captain, Humphrey Kayange makes a comeback to the team for the first time this season.

“Of course maturity is very good for us. Andrew and Humphrey lead from the front. They understand the game very well and we are looking to boost a lot of what we did in the past two tournaments in Dubai and Cape Town,” the coach added.

Kenya are drawn in a relatively fair Pool D for the Wellington tour with Australia, Canada and Portugal but Ayimba called on his charges not to underestimate any team.

“It is a very tricky group. If you look at how the Australians and Canadian play, they bring everything to the field and that is going to be a huge challenge. We also don’t take Portugal lightly because they’ve not being playing well and this could just be the tournament where they raise their game. It will be very important for us to be focused on the park.”

The team departs for New Zealand on Sunday.

Wellington and Sydney squad

Andrew Amonde (KCB, Captain), Collins Injera (Mwamba, Vice-Captain), Oscar Ouma (Top Fry Nakuru), Humphrey Kayange (Mwamba), Nelson Oyoo (Top Fry Nakuru), Biko Adema (Nondescripts), William Ambaka (Kenya Harlequin), Oscar Ayodi (Menengai Cream Homeboyz), Eden Agero (Kenya Harlequin), Billy Odhiambo (Pan Africa Strathmore Leos), Bush Mwale (Menengai Cream Homeboyz), Donald Aluoch (Top Fry Nakuru) Non-travelling reserves: Robert Aringo (Resolution Impala Saracens), Leonard Mugaisi (Menengai Cream Homeboyz), Alvin Otieno (Menengai Cream Homeboyz)

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Former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, poses with the SPL Trophy when he hosted Gor Mahia to luncheon after holding on to their title in November. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, January 20 – “We shall not be the whipping boys of the CAF Champions League tournament this year.”

That is the bold statement of intent from Gor Mahia assistant secretary general, Ronald Ngala as the domestic giants set their sights on scaling the lucrative group stages of this season’s CAF Champions League.

In the past three seasons, K’Ogalo have been peerless on the home front; breaking down the barriers of local club football history in the process but the onus is on them to make a continent sit up and take notice by reaching the group phase for the first time in 24 years.

K’Ogalo have failed to stamp their authority in the gathering of continental giants after being bundled out in the first round in the past two seasons, putting their home dominance into the shade.

“We are aiming for the group stages. Winning the KPL is also a key objective this season and it requires hard work to achieve this.

“This time, the club’s performance in Africa’s premier club tournament will be better than before,” Ngala told the club’s official website.

K’Ogalo are in Sudan intensifying pre-season preparations and will open their 2016 CAF Champions League campaign against Madagascans, CNaPS in the preliminary round by hosting the first leg in Nairobi on February 13.

Head coach Frank Nuttall is upbeat about his team’s chances of going past the first round this year.

“We will play high profile friendlies ahead of the CNaPS match. This is the preparations I wanted and thank the office for ensuring it happens.

“However, it is never easy to try and rebuild by replacing some key players,” the Scotsman who has won two back-to-back titles with K’Ogalo declared.

The 2015 KPL champions, who went unbeaten, will take on Al Hilal on Thursday before wrapping up their build-up with a clash against Al Khartoum where their former midfield lynchpin Anthony Akumu now plies his trade.

Burundian defender Karim Nizigiyimana and Ugandan midfielder Godfrey Walusimbi are set to link up with the squad in Sudan on the eve of the first friendly encounter.

“Ali Abondo is unwell and Khalid Aucho, Abouba Sibomana and Innocent Wafula are yet to be part of us and it isn’t their fault,” Nuttall told the website.

As part of build-up for the busy season ahead, Gor will be looking to continue with their unbeaten start to pre-season after beating hosts St. Georges of Ethiopia on penalties to lift the invitational the cup in Addis Ababa.

Gor will be buoyed by vice-captain and long-serving defender; Musa Mohamed’s decision to extend his contract by two years whilst the club is finalizing deal to tie fellow centre half; Harun Shakava, who was linked with a move to his old club Kakamega Homeboyz.

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