- There are 17 athletes involved in the program
- NOCK will fully cater for their training and races
- They hope to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games
The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) has launched a Sprinters Program, signaling a significant step forward in Team Kenya’s journey toward the Paris 2024 Olympics.
With full determination, NOCK has taken charge of the entire relay team, comprising the 4x100m men, 4x400m men, 4x400m women, and the mixed relay.
The program is designed to ensure meticulous training and preparation to position the team for success on the global stage.
“We are fully committed to ensuring the team’s qualification and an ultimate podium finish in Paris. This is the reason we have decided to come in and put in our assistance by placing them in camp and giving them all the necessary support towards their needs,” Team Kenya’s Paris 2024 Chief Executive Officer Wanjiru Karani said.
All athletes have commenced their training regimen at Nyayo Stadium, where they will benefit from a structured environment aimed at sharpening their skills and fostering teamwork.
The program is led by Head Coach Mwaniki Mlamba, and is crafted to refine their abilities and strategize for success. Furthermore, NOC-K has provided the 17 athletes with the necessary equipment and full kits.
During the launch of the relay team’s programs, NOCK President Paul Tergat underscored the importance of hard work and qualification, emphasizing NOC-K’s commitment to providing proper care and support to the athletes.
NOCK will give all support needed
NOCK boss Paul Tergat during the launch of the program
“We’re enlisting sponsors to bolster this program. As a former athlete, I understand its significance. So, I implore you: stay focused, work hard and put your eyes on qualification. As NOCK, we will give you all the support you need,”
NOC-K Secretary General Francis Mutuku revealed plans for the team’s participation in the ASA Grand Prix continental tour challenge in Johannesburg, South Africa, followed by a camp in Miramas, France.
The team will then proceed to the Penny Relays and culminate their preparation at the World Athletics Relays in the Bahamas on 4th and 5th May and in all these events, they will be seeking qualification time for the Olympic Games.
Additionally, NOCK expressed gratitude to Tusker for its generous sponsorship, providing significant financial support towards the program.
“Just as you saw, Tusker has given us Sh30mn for Team Kenya’s preparation, but on top of that, Sh5mn will be going to sprinters. A separate program just for you, so you will also be activating for KBL, and this is a boost for your morale when sponsors believe in you,” Mutuku said, as he spoke to the athletes.
Barnaba Korir, the Athletics Kenya Youth Development Chairman, and Deputy Chef de Mission to Paris 2024 emphasized the importance of discipline and focus among the athletes.
Maintain high levels of discipline
Athletics Kenya official Barnaba Korir with NOCK officials
“For you to qualify, you need to maintain the highest levels of discipline both on and off the track. You have to sacrifice a lot to attain a ticket to the Olympic Games. We are here to support and ensure that you achieve this dream,” Korir noted.
Team captain and two-time Olympian Mike Mokamba expressed gratitude to NOCK for its support and highlighted the historical significance of past achievements.
“As Captain of the team, I want to thank NOC-K for coming on board to support the sprinters and launching this program. We reported to camp on Monday, and so far, we are comfortable. We desire to bring back memories of the 1972 Olympics,” stated Mokamba.
Five athletes, including 800m World Champion Mary Moraa, are absent from this camp as they prepare in Kasarani to depart for Accra, Ghana, they will subsequently fly directly to South Africa and join the team for their next phase of training.
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