M. KisengeNOC-K launches training camps in Malindi and Nairobi ahead of the Africa beach games
Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 16.06.23. | 16:53
The Africa Beach Games hold significant importance as they serve as qualifiers for the prestigious World Beach Games
The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) has commenced training camps in Malindi and Nairobi as Team Kenya gears up for the Africa Beach Games scheduled to take place in Hammamet, Tunisia, from June 23rd to June 30th, 2023.
With a strong focus on diverse beach sports, the Kenyan contingent, consisting of 74 athletes, is set to participate in multiple disciplines.
Nairobi will witness intense 3x3 basketball training sessions at Nyayo, followed by a move to Umoja 2 courts. The wrestling team will hone their skills at Strathmore University.
Meanwhile, the remaining teams will train at the picturesque Buntwani Waterfront Park in Malindi. This location, known for hosting the inaugural Kenya Beach Games, offers ideal conditions for the athletes to prepare for their respective events.
The highly-anticipated Team Kenya will comprise 12 male and 12 female athletes competing in the exciting 5-aside format of beach soccer and Beach handball.
Beach tennis will witness what promises to be thrilling doubles competitions for both male and female participants.
The male and female teams of 3x3 basketball will strive to leave their mark in their debut in the games.
The ocean racing sprint rowing discipline will showcase the talents of three male and three female athletes, while open water swimming will feature two representatives each.
Additionally, beach wrestling will field three male and three female athletes. Notably, two exceptional athletes will represent Kenya in the Beach Marathon, displaying the country's athletic prowess over a challenging 10km distance.
The marathoners are currently undergoing dedicated training in the renowned town of Iten.
Shoaib Vayani, the Chief de Mission (CDM), and Executive Liaison Officer John Ogolla visited the teams during their training camps in Malindi.
Building on past successes, Team Kenya aims to surpass its achievements from the previous edition held in Cape Verde in 2019.
Charles Muneria, a 2016 Rio Olympian, secured a silver medal in the athletics half marathon event, while Fazal Khan and Ibrahim Yego claimed bronze in beach tennis men's doubles.
Notably, Naomie Too and Olympian Gaudencia Makhokha brought home a bronze in beach volleyball, adding to the nation's pride.
The Africa Beach Games hold significant importance as they serve as qualifiers for the prestigious World Beach Games.
Furthermore, for sports such as 3x3 basketball, participation in these games will contribute valuable points towards the qualification process for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
