T. NashipaeHistory as Kenyan youngster Ashley Tshanda Ongong'a punches ticket to Winter Youth Olympic Games
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 20.12.23. | 09:10
Ongong’a who was born in Italy holds dual Kenyan and Italian citizenship. She however chose to represent Kenya internationally
Christmas came early for 16-year-old Ashley Tshanda Ongong'a after qualifying to represent Kenya at the Winter Youth Olympics Gangwon 2024, set to take place in Gangwon, South Korea from January 19th to February 1st, 2024.
According to the National Olympic Committee of Kenya [NOC-K], Ongong'a qualified based on her International Ski Federation (FIS) ranking of the women's Youth Olympic Games quota allocation lists as of 18 December 2023.
The remarkable feat sees Ongong’a go down in history as the first African and Kenyan female cross-country skier to qualify for the Winter Youth Olympic Games.
Ongong’a who was born in Italy holds dual Kenyan and Italian citizenship. She however chose to represent Kenya internationally.
She is under the tutelage of the best ski coaches in Italy, where she attends a sports school, Bachmann Sports College -Tarvisio, under coach Francesco Silverio.
It is the tactician who honed her skiing skills and achieved notable successes at various competitions.
NOC-K acting as the National Ski Federation played a pivotal role in Ashley's journey.
Following a recommendation by NOC-K, Ongong’a, along with Issa Laborde, an Alpine Skier, this year underwent an intensive 14-day training camp in South Korea under the PyeongChang 2018 Legacy Foundation. NOC-K has also given financial and administrative support to participate in FIS races to get ranking points that earned her a qualification place.
Secretary General Francis Mutuku is happy with the young girl's massive exploits and emphasized NOC-K's unwavering commitment to supporting athletes abroad.
Other athletes abroad include Issa Laborde, the Kenyan skier who has also qualified for the Winter Olympics after Gangwon 2024.
"We find great inspiration in witnessing athletes residing abroad who are eager to proudly hoist the Kenyan flag. Their enthusiasm underscores our collective passion for representation, highlighting the significance our national colors hold for them," said Mutuku.
Ashley's achievements include multiple victories in cross-country ski titles, regional and national championships, and notable participation in international ski competitions.