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AFC Leopards

AFC Leopards Publishes Anniversary Report, Discloses Generation of Ksh18.8 million

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AFC Leopards released their 60th-anniversary celebrations report, providing details on key activities, funds raised, expenditures, and recommendations. The report revealed that the club raised Ksh18.8 million during the month-long celebration, including a visit to the Statehouse after an invitation from President William Ruto. President Ruto donated Ksh10 million, followed by donations from Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, and Chief Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

Other companies and individuals also contributed to raising the total amount. The Resource Mobilization sub-committee was credited with managing to raise the funds and the club expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the anniversary activities. In the report, it was disclosed that the FKF Premier League paid their arch-rivals Gor Mahia Ksh1 million for a friendly match at Nyayo Stadium, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

The same amount was paid to Shabana FC for a friendly match with AFC Leopards that also ended in a 1-1 draw. The report did not mention any payment to A.E Ramassa from Barcelona, Spain, which also played against AFC Leopards. The committee recommended that AFC Leopards employ a media and liaisons officer to manage its media activities, and the club accepted the recommendation by unveiling Catherine Shainyisa as their new Media Liaison Officer.

The report also highlighted the successful engagement of other clubs in the celebrations and the improved working relationship with partners and sponsors.

Shujaa

Vincent Onyala of Shujaa discusses co-captaincy significance before Paris Olympics.

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On the 30th of April 2024, the Kenya national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, is gearing up for the final leg of the Challenger Series set to take place in Poland from May 18. Co-captains Vincent Onyala and Tony Omondi are leading the team, and as per Onyala, having two captains makes the decision-making process easier as they can bring different perspectives to the table.

Onyala, who was part of the Shujaa squad at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, emphasized the benefits of co-captaincy, stating that it allows them to brainstorm and make better decisions for the team. During a training session at the Kasarani Annex, Onyala shared his optimism about Shujaa’s performance in the Challenger Series.

He expressed confidence in securing a top two position in the series, which will guarantee them a spot in the promotion/relegation play off in Poland. He highlighted the team’s strategic approach and determination in the upcoming competition.

Looking ahead to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Onyala mentioned that the team views their position as having nothing to lose, considering it a strength that will motivate them to showcase their abilities. He emphasized the players’ eagerness to perform at the Games and their determination to make a mark in the competition.

Rugby Africa Barthes U20 Trophy

Chipu’s Coach Simon Jawichre Unveils Key Ingredient Behind Qualification for World Rugby U20 Trophy

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Chipu Head Coach Simon Jawichre attributed his team’s success in the Rugby Africa Barthes U20 Trophy to the proper execution of the game plan and following touchline instructions. After Chipu came from behind to defeat Zimbabwe in the title decider, Jawichre praised the young players for adhering to the game plan. He revealed that fine-tuning the scrummage and liners sectors helped Chipu claim a 28-13 victory over Zimbabwe, despite falling behind in the early minutes of the game.

Jawichre emphasized that the scrummage and liners were crucial in breaking down Zimbabwe’s defense. He described the win as a much-needed boost for Kenyan rugby, aiming to take it up the scale and rebuild the sport in the country. Chipu is set to face the Netherlands and Uruguay in Pool B of the tournament, with the final place to be taken by the winner of the USA-Canada play-off.

The line-up for Pool A includes Samoa, Scotland, Japan, and the Asian qualifier Hong Kong China. Both Chipu and the Junior Sables were unbeaten going into the final round of matches following earlier wins over Tunisia and Namibia. Jawichre sees the win as an intervention that will give rugby fans a belief in the sport after its elimination from the World Rugby Series.

Emmanuel Wanyonyi

Emmanuel Wanyonyi Discusses His Next Bold Plan After Smashing World Road Mile Record.

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On April 27th, 2024, 19-year-old Kenyan athlete Emmanuel Wanyonyi broke the world road mile record with a time of 3:54.56 at the adizero Road to Records event in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Following his remarkable achievement, Wanyonyi expressed his determination to secure a place in Team Kenya for the upcoming Olympic Games, emphasizing his goal to make a significant impact and bring home medals on his Olympic debut. In an interview with Nation Africa, Wanyonyi highlighted the intense competition and the tight qualification process for the Kenyan trials, recognizing the need to qualify and be selected to represent the national team. He acknowledged the upcoming Olympic Games as a pivotal event in his career, emphasizing his desire to leave a lasting impression.

Wanyonyi’s record-breaking performance was met with celebration and excitement as he crossed the finish line, and he credited his coach for instilling confidence in him and encouraging him to pursue the world record. Reflecting on his victory, Wanyonyi expressed gratitude to his supporters and emphasized his commitment to maintaining his form and improving further in preparation for the Olympic trials. With the spotlight now on Wanyonyi, all eyes are on the promising athlete as he prepares for the Paris Olympic Games.

Bandari Football Club

Bandari FC instructed to pay ex-player Douglas Mokaya Ksh1 million for contract breach.

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On 29th April 2024, the Sports Disputes Tribunal issued a ruling in the case involving Douglas Mokaya, a former player of Bandari Football Club. The tribunal ordered the club to pay Mokaya Ksh1,068,677 for breach of contract. The tribunal stated that Mokaya was terminated from the club without due process, contravening labor laws. As a result, Bandari FC was directed to pay Mokaya compensation, including one month’s salary in lieu of notice, payment for the days worked before termination, and twelve months’ pay in total.

Mokaya, who now plays for Bidco United, had filed a petition in August 2023 demanding over Ksh2 million in compensation for the premature termination of his employment contract. He cited unlawful termination and sought suitable compensation for the unexpired term of his contract. During the proceedings, Mokaya argued his case, and Bandari failed to provide sufficient evidence to counter the decision. The ruling emphasized that Bandari risks facing sanctions if they do not comply with the tribunal’s directives.

The tribunal also noted that the club and Mokaya each presented a witness to convey their positions. It further highlighted that simple interest would be applied to the awarded sums until full payment is made. The ruling from the Sports Disputes Tribunal addressed the breach of contract and highlighted the club’s failure to follow due process in terminating Mokaya’s employment. Consequently, the tribunal’s decision ordered Bandari FC to compensate Mokaya for the wrongful termination, with specific amounts detailed in the verdict.

Adizero Race to Records

Agnes Ngetich narrowly misses world record by 2 seconds as Kenyans shine in Germany

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Agnes Ngetich Jebet clinched the 10km title at the 2024 Adizero race records in Germany. On the men’s side, the title was secured by Kenya’s Nicholas Kimeli.

The Ethiopian runners dominated in both the men’s and women’s 5km categories. The event showcased an impressive performance by Kenyan runners at the 2024 Adizero Race to Records held in Herzogenaurach, Germany.

Agnes Ngetich Jebet displayed a brilliant performance to secure the women’s 10km race victory in 30:03, closely trailing the women’s only world record of 30:01 set by Agnes Tirop in September 2021. She was followed by her compatriots Margaret Chelimo and Jesca Chelangat, with Chelimo finishing in second place with a time of 30:39 and Chelangat following in 30:46.

Another Kenyan representative, Stacy Ndiwa, finished in ninth place with a time of 31:01. In the men’s category, Kenyan athletes dominated the race, with Sawe crossing the finishing line in 27:07 and Rodrigue Kwizera securing the podium place positions.

Additionally, Ethiopian runners excelled in the 5km category, with Medina Eisa and Yomif Kejelcha claiming the titles for the women’s and men’s races, respectively. The event showcased outstanding performances from athletes, with noteworthy achievements in various categories, solidifying the reputation of both Kenyan and Ethiopian runners on the international stage.

Amos Biwott

From Grace to Grass: The Tragic Tale of Kenya’s First Olympic 3000m Steeplechase Champion

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On 26th April 2024, Amos Biwott, the first Kenyan runner to win a 3000m steeplechase Olympic Games title, was celebrated. His gold medal at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s athletic history. Biwott’s innovative technique of clearing hurdles set the stage for Kenya’s reputation as a producer of talented middle- and long-distance runners. Kenya has been a powerhouse in the world of running for decades, with athletes breaking world records, achieving Olympic Games and World Athletics Championships titles, and etching their names in history books.

Among these legends is Amos Kiptabok Biwott, whose impact on the 3000m steeplechase discipline is a defining feature of Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running. Despite his substantial contribution to Kenya’s sporting industry, Biwott’s personal journey is less known. This feature by Sportpesa News aims to unravel Biwott’s rise to success, his subsequent downfall, and his enduring legacy as one of Kenya’s best steeplechase runners. Born in 1947 in Nandi County, Biwott gained fame at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico when he clinched Kenya’s first Olympic Games 3000m steeplechase title.

His victory, achieved in spectacular fashion with a time of 8:51.02, solidified his place in history. Biwott’s unique technique, later adopted by other runners, gave him a competitive edge and contributed to his remarkable performance at the Olympic Games. However, Biwott’s career took a downturn following his triumph in Mexico. He secured a third position in the 1970 Commonwealth Games and a sixth-place finish at the 1972 Olympic Games, marking a shift from his earlier success.

His final appearance for Kenya was at the 1974 Commonwealth Games, where he finished in eighth place. After retiring from professional running, Biwott faced personal challenges. He was arrested and prosecuted for theft, an unfortunate turn of events that led to his fall from grace. With his name cleared, he resorted to working as a watchman at a stadium to make ends meet.

In a recent interview, Biwott revealed his close relationship with former Kenyan President Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi, who appreciated Biwott’s contributions to Kenya’s athletics industry. Despite his hardships, Biwott continues to reside in Mlango, a lesser-known village in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. His enduring legacy as a pioneer in athletics and his significant impact on Kenyan running history remain an important part of his story.

Kenya Prisons Men Volleyball Team

7 Kenya Prisons Players Promoted After Winning African Championships in Volleyball

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The Kenya Prisons Men Volleyball team has achieved recognition after securing bronze in the men’s African Volleyball club championship. As a result, seven players from the team have been promoted to various ranks in the Kenya Prisons Police Department due to their outstanding performances in the championship.

Among those promoted is Peter Kibata, who was awarded the best libero in the 45th African Men’s Volleyball Championship in Cairo, Egypt. According to the Kenya Volleyball Federation, Kibata has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

Additionally, six other players, including Kelvin Kipkosgei, Charles Bosire, Jairus Kipkosgei, Emmanuel Kosgei, Sila Kipruto, and Ezekiel Yebei, have been promoted to the rank of Corporal at Kenya Prisons Service. Under the leadership of Coach Dennis Mokua, the team has achieved significant success, becoming the only Kenyan men’s team to reach the medal bracket twice, with their last appearance in 2011 resulting in a silver medal.

The team’s victory at the continental level marks their return to the international scene after a five-year absence, and it follows their first league glory since 2016. Following the triumph, Coach Mokua expressed plans to continue building on the team’s performance going forward.

In addition, Mokua acknowledged the challenges faced by the team and commended the players for their commitment and resilience during their journey to the podium. Despite facing tough opponents, including Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly and Tunisia’s Mouloudia, Kenya Prisons demonstrated determination and resilience to secure their place on the podium.

Mary Moraa

Mary Moraa explains the motivation behind her viral dancing celebration

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The Kip Keino Classic 800m race took place at the Nyayo National Stadium, and it saw Mary Moraa successfully defending her title as she clinched the top spot with a world lead time of 1:57:96. Nelly Chepchirchir and Vivian Chebet finished second and third, respectively. Moraa is renowned for her post-race dance, which she explained as a way to entertain and put a smile on her loyal followers’ faces. Moraa, known as ‘The Dancing Queen’ among athletics fans, revealed her motivation for dancing after victories in an interview with SportPesa News.

She expressed that it is a dedication to her supporters, aiming to entertain and bring joy to them. Moraa’s charismatic persona and success on the track have garnered her a significant fan base. Aside from her 800m victory, Moraa has also competed in the 400m race multiple times this year, focusing on improving her speed in preparation for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games. She expressed satisfaction with her performance and revealed plans to continue refining her skills for future races.

Looking ahead, Moraa’s next challenge is the Doha Diamond League meeting scheduled for Friday, May 10 at the Qatar Sports Club. As she continues to strive for excellence on the track, Moraa’s dedication to her followers and commitment to entertaining them through her post-race dance have further endeared her to the athletic community.

Gor Mahia

Three goalkeepers’ impact on the 98th Mashemeji Derby

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The 98th Mashemeji Derby featured a dramatic game between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards. Gor Mahia’s goalkeeper Kevin Omondi received a red card in the 35th minute of the game. This left the team in a precarious position, but Caleb Otieno stepped up to secure a victory for K’Ogalo. Throughout the game, Gor Mahia appeared comfortable and in control.

They moved the ball with ease and faced minimal resistance from the AFC Leopards backline. In contrast, AFC Leopards struggled to maintain possession and lost the ball frequently, frustrating their fans. The modern era of goalkeeping demands more than shot-stopping skills. Goalkeepers are now expected to be adept with their feet and comfortable playing the ball out from the back.

However, a defensive error from AFC Leopards led to a goal, raising concerns about the goalkeeper’s performance and prompting accusations of premeditated mistakes from conspiracy theorists. The match also saw disciplinary issues, with Omondi receiving criticism for his red card and the subsequent reaction from the fans. Nonetheless, Otieno’s performance in goal was commendable, as he made crucial saves and maintained the team’s defensive shape. Overall, the game was marked by tension both on and off the field, but ultimately delivered an exciting showdown for the fans.

In conclusion, the 98th Mashemeji Derby was a memorable contest, with the goalkeepers playing a significant role in the outcome.