AK to host inter-camp competitions as build up for national U20 trials

Athletics Kenya (AK) is planning to have an inter-camp competition in April 2024 to help young athletes prepare for the national Under 20 trials as well as the World Under 20 Championships slated for August 26-31, 2024 in Lima, Peru.

According to AK Youth and Development Committee treasurer Elizabeth Keitany, the federation was strict on having only athletes who adhere to age requirements in the junior camps.

AK recently increased the number of junior camps countrywide from 21 to 42. Athletes born between the years 2005-2008 are using the camps to sharpen their claws for next year’s youth championships.

A total of 200 athletes drawn from Riooga Secondary in Nyamira, Keberesi (Kisii), Ebwali (Vihiga), Mumias Central Primary (Kakamega), Kiptere (Kericho), Sinonin (Baringo), Sangoro Secondary (Kisumu), Keberesi, Dinonin, and Machakos Talent Academy competed in the first AK Track and Field meeting.

“I’m encouraged by the fact that most of these camps are adhering to age requirements. This time around, we are very strict on this and all camp coordinators must ensure the athletes in camp are within the required age bracket,” Keitany offered.

She was also grateful to the Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba for championing the increase of the number of camps, insisting that proper camps are the future of athletes. She also pleaded with the camp coordinators to feed the athletes well, in addition to proper training.

“We want to thank CS Ababu Namwamba and AK for having these camps in place. The athletes in the camps are our future,” said Keitany.

“This region of Nyanza North has produced renowned sprinters and I’m confident more will emerge from this group,” Keitany averred.

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Her sentiments were echoed by AK Vice Chairman Paul Mutwii who expressed pleasure in the huge turnout of athletes. He encouraged them to keep going, noting that they would have more competitions to serve as a springboard ahead of the junior championships.

“We want athletes currently in the camps to take part in weekend meetings and cross-country events to gauge themselves ahead of next year’s trials. We want Kenya to continue with its dominance in athletics and that is why we have started early preparations," Mutwii said.

Chepkorir, Keter emerge victorious in last day of AK track and field meet in Kisumu

Caroline Chepkorir and Vincent Keter effortlessly won the 1500m category on the final day of the Athletics Kenya (AK) track and field meet held in Kisumu on Saturday. Chepkorir crossed the finish line in 4:35:28 while his male counterpart Keter finished in 3:44:44 to carry the day. Keter outclassed a strong contingent that included Dennis Kiprono and Rodgers Murei who finished second and third in 3:45:82 and 3:47:49 respectively.