Cycling duo gunning for Youth Commonwealth Games success

Kenya’s duo of Billy Graham and Daniel Kiptala is gearing up towards representing the country in the Commonwealth Youth Games, where they will headline the Junior Cycling Team.

In the 4-11 August games to be held in Trinidad and Tobago, the two will take on both the road race and individual time trial events, where they will compete against the clock.

During the last Commonwealth Youth Games, Kenya impressed in the road race, emerging as the top team from the African continent, beating strong competitors from Ghana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Uganda.

"I am thrilled to be part of the team, and I believe we will achieve excellent results,” Graham told NOC-K Media on Friday. “Individual Time Trial is especially appealing to me because it's just you and your power racing against time.

“I am fully focused and committed to giving my best performance.”

Graham is embarking on his international debut at the games.

Athletes troop to Kasarani for Youth Commonwealth Games preparation

His compatriot however, showcased his potential during his international debut at the African Junior Championships in Aswan, Egypt.

In 2022, he was poised to secure 6th place on the final stage but encountered an unfortunate bike breakdown, causing him to miss out on the opportunity due to a puncture.

"I have been training rigorously over the years, and earning a spot in the national team for the Commonwealth Youth Games is a tremendous honor for me,” Kiptala, who is determined to claim a podium finish in Trinidad and Tobago, said. “I will go out there and do my utmost to represent our country with pride.”

The team's preparations have been further strengthened with the addition of two training partners, Boaz Kangogo and Brian Kipkenboi.

Kangogo, a prominent U23 cyclist, recently completed a six-month training program in South Africa, and their valuable lessons and experience will be instrumental in keeping both Kiptala and Billy in top shape during their preparation for the games.