GWANGJU – Kenya represents one of the most consistent participants at the Universiade from the African continent. Though the performances and achievements have been mixed, Kenya are at this Summer Universiade in Gwangju to make a difference. According to the Kenyan Head of Delegation Walter Onyango, the delegation is looking to build on its achievements. “We are hopeful, we have at this games a very strong delegation with our steeple chaser Edwin Kibichy, a student of the Lowville University in Kentucky; 5,000 meters runner Faith Keitany; in the half marathon we have Mark Lokwanamoie, these and several others who are also our medal hopefuls.”
Kenya, popular for its long distance and marathon runners is here to rake in the medals and are building towards their strength for future events with this experience for the young athletes. Speaking about University Sports in Kenya, Mr. Onyango said that “in terms of programmes it is quite expansive, we have a whole range of events we are focusing on, and we are at a phase where we are trying to enhance the university brand in the country. Previously much of our participation has been in the national federation events but we have started doing university leagues and competitions also, working along regional competitions and continental competitions too.”
Evelyn Noah, a singles Tennis Player and Business IT student from the Strathmore University in Kenya, believes her country is really building for greater things and she is grateful for this opportunity. “We had the Kenyan trials a few weeks ago and I did really well, and this means I have qualified also for the All African Games and for me the journey has just started. I intend to do my best considering this is my first competition outside of Kenya. The Universiade is definitely going to serve as a good foundation for me meeting people from different places from my sport and I am really learning a lot. I will return home with a richer mind set and exposure.”
Chidiebere Ezeani (NGR), FISU Young Reporter