Meru University emerged victorious in the second edition of the Mt Kenya Badminton Championship after edging out Chuka University.
The game, which was played over the weekend, saw Meru win two sets to one in a thrilling final.
The two-day tournament, held in Nanyuki, brought together teams from seven universities across the Mt Kenya region under the banner of the Boom and Thrive Series.
In the men’s singles category, Kennedy Munene of Chuka University claimed top honours after defeating Ian Kimtai two sets to one in a tightly contested final.
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“I am very excited to be in this facility; the Mt Kenya region has a good court where people can train and showcase their talent,” Munene said. “We are thankful to Boom and Thrive for organising such a tournament.”
In the women’s singles category, Beryl Allie from Meru University was crowned champion after overcoming Gigi Wambui in another gripping encounter.
“This is the second time we are participating in this tournament. We are grateful to Boom and Thrive for the opportunity,” Allie said. “Badminton has been ignored for a long time.”
The championship, which attracted corporate sponsorship, aims to elevate badminton’s profile in the country to match other popular sports such as Athletics, Rugby and Boxing.
Mt Kenya region Boom and Thrive badminton promoter Edward Muchiri said the initiative is focused on nurturing talent among students and advocating for better infrastructure.
“This event is about growing interest in badminton among young people and pushing for expansion of facilities through the Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Education,” Muchiri said.
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He added that the Mt Kenya Badminton Series is also opening doors for students in higher learning institutions by linking them to internship opportunities through tournament sponsors.
The organisers expressed optimism that continued investment and exposure will help the sport gain wider recognition and inspire more young athletes across the region.
By Kimutai Langat
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