The Kenya Triathlon Federation has partnered with The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) to host the African Triathlon Cup Championships on the 27th of November 2022 in Kilifi County.
During an event held on Monday at the NOC-K Headquarters and attended by top triathletes Aisha Nasser and Joseph Okal, NOC-K handed over Kshs. 927,000 to go towards meeting the costs of the main event.
Over 25 Kenyan athletes are expected to grace the event and is organized in partnership with the World Triathlon Federation, African Triathlon Federation, and NOC-K.
According to the Kenya Triathlon Federation, the tournament will assist more Kenyan athletes get exposure to international standards competition, as well as earning points which will help them improve their world rankings that count in their qualification pathway to Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Speaking while receiving the sponsorship, the Kenya Triathlon Federation Treasurer Rommel Lukila expressed commitment to be the host of the continental showpiece.
“We are very privileged to be hosting the event because the African Cup has never come to Kenya. We are looking forward to a big race and I believe this will help in opening up an opportunity for our athletes who have not had the chance to go out and get a feel of international competition. We are very grateful to NOC-K for agreeing to partner with us which will help us in creating awareness and popularizing triathlon.’’
He added, ‘‘usually, Kenya takes about 10 athletes a year to similar ranking competitions, therefore hosting gives the same opportunity for more athletes at reduced costs.’’
NOC-K Secretary General, Francis Mutuku appreciated the move and successful bid by Triathlon Federations to host the African Cup and encouraged more federations to pursue similar opportunities.
“Part of our strategic direction initiative is to improve the exposure of athletes to international competition. We have supported various Federations over the past two months to participate in international and continental events. This support has also been extended to federations that are hosting tournaments and qualifiers within Kenya. We acknowledge improved performance due to the exposure gained during these competitions.”
Commonwealth Games debutants Joseph Okal and Aisha Nasir who made history as the first Kenyans to ever compete the race will be looking to make a first-time appearance at the event but this time in more familiar terrain.
This is the first time Kenya will be hosting the African Cup, with nine countries confirming participation.