Kenya banking on youth development as Triathlon dream shifts towards Dakar and LA 2028

Triathlon Kenya will foster youth development with outlined structured plans to help steer Kenya’s first team qualification in the sport as it targets the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

This comes after the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Duathlon and Triathlon Cups in Kilifi, where Team Kenya put up a spirited performance in both men's and women's categories.

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The federation’s Secretary General, Salonika Ole Koyiet, said the successful hosting of the continental event was a signal of growth and renewed purpose for the sport.

“Both events were held back-to-back for the first time, and we are happy with the record turnout and participation from 11 countries,” he said.

“The feedback from athletes and coaches has been very positive. Our biggest focus now is on youth camps and technical capacity.

We are working closely with the continental and international federations to develop the sport further in Kenya."

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Ole Koyiet revealed that the Development Cup set for next month will provide a key testing ground for emerging athletes as Kenya continues preparations toward the Youth Olympics and the 2028 Games.

“We are targeting the Dakar Youth Games category, and our goal is to have strong youth representation.

LA 2028 remains our immediate focus, and we are keen on establishing youth programs and training camps that will build the next generation of triathletes,” he said.

Ole Koyiet also said that the Kilifi event was a blueprint for future hosting and talent development.

“We will continue to collaborate with local communities, schools, and federations. Hosting such events in Kenya gives our athletes exposure and confidence,” he said. 

“The goal is clear, and it is to develop the sport from the grassroots to the global stage."

He acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Sports and the local community in Kilifi, whose partnership ensured smooth hosting and a vibrant atmosphere.

Among the young Kenyans who stood out in Kilifi was Iman Kaiza, who finished sixth in the women’s elite category in 1:35:20, displaying resilience in what she described as one of the toughest courses she has faced.

Kaiza noted that the competition provided a valuable learning platform against seasoned international athletes.

"There is so much between the swim run and back. There is a lot of growth in those of us practising it, and I am so happy.

It’s good to exchange knowledge with those who come from abroad. My biggest gap came in the swim; they are very strong, but I’ve learned a lot,” she said.

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She emphasised the need for investment in facilities, equipment, and nutrition, adding that spare wheels, training gear, and better infrastructure would make a huge difference for local athletes.

“It’s hectic when you get a puncture mid-race, it eats into your time and emotions. Equipment is expensive, but it’s what makes the difference, and therefore, we need facilities.

By facilities, I mean speared wheels. The road was very tough, and many got punctures, and fixing such takes quite a lot of time. It's hectic because you are in a race, and you get so many emotions.

As athletes, it’s really expensive to get even spare wheels. There is a lot of potential to grow. I am really shocked that I finished,” she said.

Kaiza, who trains under a trio of coaches, David Ndatha (cycling), Camila Lydia (swimming), and Geoffrey Onyango (strength and conditioning), reflected on her journey with gratitude.

Though she missed the age bracket for the Youth Olympic category, Kaiza said she would continue training toward future international events.

“It’s okay, there will be more opportunities. I’ll keep preparing for other competitions and cheer on those who make it to Dakar,” she said with optimism.

The Africa Triathlon and Duathlon Cups, organised by Triathlon Kenya, Africa Triathlon, and World Triathlon, brought together athletes from 11 nations, setting a new benchmark for endurance sport in the region.