Julius Yego defends athletes after African Games trials chaos


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The Africa Games are taking place in Accra, Ghana from March 8 to 23. Athletes were upset with Athletics Kenya for only selecting one athlete to represent the country in the different events. Former world champion Julius Yego supported the Kenyan athletes and criticized the decision.

Several athletes protested at the Athletics Kenya trials on March 5, 2024, causing disruptions. The decision made by the national athletics federation, without consulting the athletes, was met with strong disapproval. Yego emphasized the importance of the athletes being involved in decisions that impact their careers and livelihood.

He also questioned the allocation of funds meant for the African Games. Yego expressed concerns about the lack of respect and support given to Kenyan runners. He highlighted the athletes’ need for financial support to sustain themselves and their families.

The athletes demanded to be heard and respected, especially after the recent death of Kelvin Kiptum, and questioned why they were not given the recognition they deserved. The African Games was originally scheduled for the previous year but was postponed to 2024 due to economic difficulties. Yego also criticized the absence of ministry representatives and support for athletics events, emphasizing the need for better representation and support from the authorities.

Following the disruptions, a significant number of athletes withdrew from the trials at Nyayo.

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