Over 50 emerging athletes set to join Grade 10 have received education scholarships after excelling in athletics trials held at the Endebess grounds in Trans-Nzoia County.
The beneficiaries were selected following a competitive talent identification exercise aimed at nurturing young athletics prospects and supporting learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The trials attracted dozens of students from across the region, with successful candidates earning opportunities to further both their education and sporting careers.
Speaking during the selection exercise, Endebess Constituency Athletics Chairman Thomas Masai, alongside teacher Victor Kimtai, said the selected students will be admitted to Moi Girls High School Kapsara, Kamoi High School, Andersen High School, and Matumbei High School.
Masai also noted that the initiative is designed to promote athletics among students while easing the financial burden on families that may not be able to support school fees. He added that structured support at the secondary school level is critical in developing disciplined, competitive athletes capable of excelling at national and international levels.
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“The goal is to identify talent early, nurture it through education, and ensure these young athletes use their abilities to transform their lives while raising Kenya’s profile in athletics,” Masai said.
Kimtai echoed the sentiments, emphasizing that education remains a key pillar in an athlete’s development, helping students balance academics with sports and prepare for life beyond the track.
Meanwhile, Athletics Association public relations officer in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Bonface Tiren, has raised concerns over age cheating in athletics.
Tiren called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to probe individuals involved in falsifying athletes’ ages and to take firm legal action against them.
He warned that age manipulation undermines the integrity of the sport, tarnishes Kenya’s reputation, and unfairly locks out genuine athletes from competing on a level playing field.
“Age cheating not only damages the image of athletics in the country but also robs deserving athletes of fair opportunities,” Tiren said.
Kenya remains a global powerhouse in athletics, and stakeholders say initiatives that combine education, talent development, and integrity are key to sustaining the country’s dominance on the world stage.
By OSBORNE BENN
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