Kenya’s athletics pipeline reached a new milestone this week after 14-year-old Jane Waweru Wangari officially became the first student-athlete from Kenya to join a U.S. high school through Townhall Athletics.
Wangari, who stunned fans last year when she ran barefoot in the 5,000 metres at the 2024 All Africa Games trials at Nyayo Stadium, will now continue her studies and training at a high school in Georgia, United States.
The move was confirmed by Townhall Athletics, an organization linking African talent to U.S. institutions, adding that the young runner has already achieved international recognition.
Earlier this year, she became the first Kenyan to win the ISF World Cross Country U15 title at Ngong Racecourse, cementing her reputation as one of the country’s brightest prospects in long-distance running.
Townhall Athletics officials said the move represents a deliberate effort to give Kenya’s junior athletes early exposure to high-level competition, education and sports.
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“Jane’s transfer marks a new era for student-athletes from Kenya. It’s about creating opportunities for both academic and athletic excellence.” Spokesman said.
He added that Wangari’s transfer to the United States also reflects growing interest from international programs in Kenya’s youth talent.
She will compete against America’s best high school runners while receiving structured coaching and access to facilities often unavailable in Kenya at the junior level.
Athletics analysts say Wangari’s move could influence how future Kenyan talents are developed.
“This is an important step for Kenyan junior athletes. Early exposure to international training and competition can raise standards back home,” said a local coach.
Kenya has a long history of producing world-class runners, but most have joined international training programs later in their careers.
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Wangari’s relocation at age 14 represents a significant shift, blending education with elite training much earlier. As she begins her new chapter in Georgia, Wangari remains focused on both schoolwork and running.
Those close to her say she intends to represent Kenya in upcoming global events, with long-term ambitions of competing in the Olympics.
Her move has been hailed as a breakthrough for Townhall Athletics and a signal to other promising young athletes that pathways to international training and education are widening.
Kenyan athletics officials have also expressed hope that this partnership would open more opportunities for youth athletes nationwide.
By Our Reporter
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