Sam Nganga
Articles by Sam Nganga
Inside Kenya’s Golden 2025: The record-smashing athletics season
Kenya’s reputation as an athletics powerhouse soared to new heights in 2025, with its athletes shattering records across multiple disciplines. The Kenyan athletes dominated the world stages both in track and marathon events. They demonstrated unparalleled excellence cementing the nation’s legacy in global sports. Setting new records have become a normality in every season whenever Kenyan runners take to the track. And in 2025 the case was no different, Kenyan heroes delivered a spectacular season: world records, championship records, and sweeping domination across the women’s middle- and long-distance events. The following athletes stood out for exceptional performances, making the year another
Kenyan sports fraternity mourns Raila Odinga, say he lived and breathed football
The Kenyan sports community has joined millions across the nation in mourning the death of former Prime Minister, ODM Party leader and long serving Gor Mahia patron Raila Amollo Odinga who passed away on Wednesday while receiving treatment in India. Fondly known as Baba, Raila who had lived for 80 years will be remembered not only as a reformist, democrat and a leader but also as a sports lover- specifically football — a sport he loved, supported, and often credited his love of the sport for helping him develop a philosophical attitude towards the rough-and-tumble world of politics. For decades,
Kenyan sports fraternity mourns Raila Odinga, say he lived and breathed football
The Kenyan sports community has joined millions across the nation in mourning the death of former Prime Minister, ODM Party leader and long serving Gor Mahia patron Raila Amollo Odinga who passed away on Wednesday while receiving treatment in India. Fondly known as Baba, Raila who had lived for 80 years will be remembered not only as a reformist, democrat and a leader but also as a sports lover- specifically football — a sport he loved, supported, and often credited his love of the sport for helping him develop a philosophical attitude towards the rough-and-tumble world of politics. For decades,
Benni McCarthy: How he has ‘transformed’ Harambee Stars
When Benni McCarthy was unveiled by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) on 3 March 2025, optimism swept across the Kenyan football fraternity. In his first press conference after signing a two-year deal, the former South African international vowed to take Harambee Stars to new heights. The former Manchester United forwards coach said he had studied the talent in the country and he believed there’s “immense potential to compete at the highest level.” Now seven months and 12 days (to be specific) later, many Kenyans may say McCarthy was a gift from the gods. McCarthy who won the prestigious UEFA Champions
The return of the track kings — can Wanyonyi lead a men’s revival?
As Kenyans celebrate their victory at the just-concluded World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, the country must also pause to reflect on a growing concern, the dwindling fortunes of the ‘boy-child’ in athletics. Kenya returned home with 11 medals; seven gold, two silver and two bronze, finishing second behind the USA’s dominant haul of 26 medals. But beneath the celebrations lies a sobering reality. Of Kenya’s medalists in Tokyo, women carried the bulk of the glory, securing six golds and two silvers, while their male counterparts could only muster one gold and two bronzes. But all is not lost. When Emmanuel
Kenya’s Running Boom: U.S. Scholarships Deliver Stars — But Who Keeps the Gains?
For decades, Kenya’s athletes have turned rough village paths into global podiums. But in recent years, a new route has opened — through American college scholarships. These deals have changed lives, launched careers, and reshaped Kenya’s athletic map. Reports show that between 2023 and 2025 Townhall Athletics, a non-profit sports organization, has helped over 130 Kenyan students secure sports scholarships in the United States. Yet as more young talents head west, one question grows louder: are we gaining or slowly losing our best? A path that changed lives For many young Kenyans, a call from a U.S. university is nothing
How Kenyan Middle-Distance Dominance Shifted from Men to Women
When Wilson Kiprugut Chumo surged down the home stretch to claim bronze in the men’s 800m at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, he did more than open Kenya’s Olympic medal account — he lit the flame of a nation’s running heritage. Kiprugut’s medal was the first for the to be running powerhouse since debuting at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne, Australia. Five years later, at the 1968 Mexico City Games, Kipchoge Keino (1500m), Naftali Temu (10,000m), and Amos Biwott (3,000m steeplechase) captured the world’s imagination with three gold medals, cementing Kenya’s global reputation as a middle-distance powerhouse. In 1983 Rome World
World Cup Qualifiers: Stars face Burundi, Cote D’Ivoire as Olunga chases topscorer record
With nothing left to play for but pride, Burundi and Kenya will face off at Intwari Stadium, Burundi on Thursday in matchday nine of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Both teams are already out of the running for a place at the finals, with the hosts sitting fourth on 10 points from three wins, a draw and four losses while the visitors, in fifth from two wins, and three draws and losses apiece. Harambee Stars contingent flied out of the country for Bujumbura on Tuesday to face the Swallows before heading to Abidjan for a date with Cote D’Ivoire’s
FKFPL Review: Shabana sit top of summit, Gor gaining momentum as Tusker struggles continue
Bidco United’s one nil victory over newly promoted Nairobi United on Monday concluded the fourth round of the 2025/26 SportPesa Premier League season. Herman Ngala’s second minute goal lifted the Oilers to third on the log table with six points from two matches as their opponent sit 13th on three points after a solitary win and a loss. Bidco are among the six teams yet to lose this season, others being Shabana, Posta Rangers, Kakamega Homeboyz, Police Fc and AFC Leopards; although the fixtures are irregular. Don’t sleep on Shabana this season Shabana FC will sit at the summit of
Kenyan teams march on to African Club Champs quarters in Abuja
Kenya’s volleyball representatives Kenya Prisons, Kenya Pipeline and KCB punched tickets to the quarter finals of the ongoing Women’s African Clubs Championship in Abuja, Nigeria on Tuesday. Five time champions Kenya Prisons, who are eyeing their first African glory since 2013, had to dig deep to edge out Rwanda Police Volleyball Club 3-2 (25-23,19-25, 25-20,20-25, 15-10) in the Round of 16 at the at the Moshood Abiola Stadium Indoor Arena. The Rwandese, boasting of former Prisons’ attacker Meldina Sande twice came from behind but were unable to complete their comeback against the 2013 champions who calmly won the fifth and
Tough luck for Shujaa as Fiji get revenge in Singapore
History looked imminent at the 2025 HSBC Singapore Sevens for Kenya Sevens (Shujaa). In 2016, Kenya were playing Argentina in the semi-finals of the Singapore Sevens when Shujaa legend Collins Injera slotted a penalty drop kick from the ten-meter line to beat Argentina 15-12 with the final kick of the match. The victory earned them a final date with Fiji whom they upset 30-7 to lift their maiden World Rugby Series title. History repeated itself today. Shujaa overcame Spain 12-5 to set up a final against Fiji who beat Argentina 33-24. All that was on Fiji’s mind was a revenge
Call him ‘Win-Nyonyi’ 800m specialist flows 1500m Olympic podium
Kenyan star Emmanuel Wanyonyi tore up the script to surprise the field in the men’s 1500m race at the inaugural Kingston Grand Slam Track Meeting, on Saturday at the Independence Park National Stadium, Jamaica.. Wanyonyi, the Olympic 800m champion, sprinted down the home straight and no one could live with his pace as he crossed the line in a lifetime best of 3:35.18. The 20 year-old who was making his international debut over the distance took down some big scalps, including the US duo of Yared Naguse, the Olympic bronze medalist, who clinched second in 3:35.36 and Olympic champion Cole Hocker,
Bad day for Kenyans as inaugural Grand Slam Track series got off in Jamaica
The inaugural Grand Slam Track series, organized by four-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson, got off to a glittering start in at the Independence Park National Stadium, Kingston on Friday as many of the world’s leading athletes descended on Jamaica’s capital to take part in the lucrative series. Big guns starred in the series opener with the likes of World and Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Nikki Hilt, Gabby Thomas, Kenny Bednarek, and Grant Fischer all dominating and winning their respective events. However, it was a bad day in office for the Kenyan contingent led by Olympic 800m bronze medalist Mary
Title race, relegation battles hot up as FKF premier league enters match day 26
The Football Kenya Federation premier league (FKF) returns this afternoon, with teams battling for honors, while the relegation axe looms for struggling sides. Ulinzi Stars will be up against Sofapaka at 3 pm at the Ulinzi complex as the soldiers seek maximum points to push them to the top 10 from position 13. Meanwhile, Batoto ba Mungu will be out to disappoint their hosts with a win, moving them two positions higher from ninth spot to seventh. On Saturday, AFC Leopards will battle Kakamega Homeboyz in the Ingo derby at Jommo Kenyata stadium in Machakos, with three points and bragging rights at stake. Ingwe
Olympics medalists Cherotich, Kibiwott headline 4th AK Track and Field Meeting in Afraha Stadium
The highly anticipated fourth leg of the AK Track and Field Weekend Meet is set to take place at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru County on 4-5 April. Action returns to this stadium after a four-year hiatus to allow its renovation. This weekend’s actin could serve as a test to the national and Nakuru county governments to accelerate the completion of the 77-years-old stadium. This event promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with Olympic steeplechase bronze medalists Faith Cherotich and Abraham Kibiwott being the main attractions. The meet will feature a diverse range of track and field disciplines, drawing top athletes
Harambee Stars drop three places in latest FIFA rankings
Kenya men’s national football team – Harambee Stars – have dropped three places in the updated FIFA rankings. As per a Thursday 3 April update by FIFA, Harambee Stars are now ranked position 111 in the world, which is three places worse off their previous mark of 108 recorded in the months of November and December 2024. The drop equates to Kenya’s joint-worst ranking in over six years, only matched by another 111th position in February last year. Kenya’s lowest ranking in that period came in August 2018, when Kenya were in position 112. The drop is accounted for by Kenya’s
Moraa to skip Kip Keino Classic in readiness for Grand Slam Track Series
Despite the challenges the inaugural 2025 Grand Slam Track Series poses, World 800m champion Mary Moraa is determined to achieve a back-to-back 800m world title. The 2025 World Championships are slated for 13-21 September in Tokyo, Japan, and if successful Moraa will become the third woman to achieve the feat. The other two to have back-to-back world titles at the distance are South Africa’s Caster Semenya who won in Berlin 2009 and Daegu 2011, and Mara Mutola of Mozambique who defended her title in Saint-Denis 2003 afer triumphing in Edmonton 2001. Moraa, the national record holder, has signed up for
Kenya Cup: Oilers stun KCB to set up a ‘Rai Derby’ final clash against Kabras
Defending champions Kabras Sugar are through to their 10th straight Kenya Cup final. Kenya U20 full back Jackson Sketta scored a brace as the sugar men hammered Nondescripts 45-6 in the semifinals played on Saturday at Kakamega Showgrounds. The win saw Kabras maintain their three-season long unbeaten run and will now start preparations to host the Kenya Cup for the sixth straight year in Kakamega on 12 April. Sketta gave the hosts a 5-0 lead after finishing off a well-executed offload from Ntabeni Dukisa. A series of Nondies attack followed before Tony Fidens reduced the deficit to 5-3 after splitting the posts with
Kenyans call for stern measures as Matasi banned over match-fixing allegations
Former Kenya internationals have led the chorus by calling on Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to do whatever they can and stop match-fixing, just a day after Kenya national team Harambee Stars goalkeeper Patrick Matasi was suspended for 90 days over the same allegations. The federation took the decision to suspend the 37-year-old, after he was dragged into serious allegations of match-fixing following a secretly recorded video that leaked allegedly showing him negotiating a deal to manipulate the outcome of a match. The footage, which was secretly recorded from the left back of a seat by another person, though the exact
Kenya Cup Semi-Finals: Tactical battles as Kabras, KCB face old foes
Kenya’s most decorated rugby club Nondescripts is keen to end Kabras Sugar’s three season unbeaten run when they face off with the defending Kenya Cup champions in the semifinals set for Saturday at Kakamega Showgrounds. Nondies have beaten Kabras just once, in the 2014/15 season when the sugar miller were making their debut in the top flight. Since then, the White Shirts have gone on to lose eight consecutive outings against the defending champions. Kabras will be eying to complete a four-peat by booking their ninth consecutive Kenya Cup final . After topping the regular-season standings, they secured a direct semi-final spot
Limited exposure and poor training facilities derailed Kenya’s Indoor ambitions
It was a show of class, but not for Kenyan stars at the just concluded World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China. The Kenyan contingent comprising of five men and women apiece failed to clinch any medal with the best result being Susan Ejore reaching the 1,500m final where she finished fifth. Last year’s indoor champs in Glasgow was something to be proud of if compared to Nanjing25 as Kenya bagged a 3.000m bronze medal thanks to the women’s 3,000m steeplechase record holder Beatrice Chepkoech. Kenya’s struggles at the indoor championships stem from lack of proper training facilities, poor preparations, and
World Athletics approves cheek swabs to determine if athlete is biologically female
World Athletics has approved the introduction of mandatory cheek swabbing to determine an athlete’s gender, with the organization’s president Sebastian Coe saying the decision was taken to “doggedly” protect the female category. It is understood World Athletics’ intention is to have the testing in place for athletes wanting to compete in the female category at the World Championships in Tokyo from 13-21 September. Coe said on Tuesday: “It’s important to do it because it maintains everything that we’ve been talking about, and particularly recently about not just talking about the integrity of female women’s sport but actually guaranteeing it. “We
FKF contradicts earlier stance on Harambee Stars vs Gabon ticket sales
Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed has revealed that only 15,968 tickets were sold for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier duel between Harambee Stars and Gabon, contradicting earlier reports, by the same body, that indicated that the match was sold out. Days before the game, FKF CEO Harold Ndege had announced that 22,900 tickets were available—21,000 regular tickets priced at Sh300 each, with VIP tickets going for Sh1,000 and VVIP tickets for Sh10,000. “There will be 21,000 tickets for the terraces at Sh300 each, while VIP tickets will be sold at Sh1,000. No tickets will be sold beyond Saturday, and fans
Ex-FIFA chief Blatter and Platini cleared in corruption case
Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and France soccer great Michel Platini were both cleared of corruption charges by a Swiss court on Tuesday, two and a half years after they were first acquitted of the offences. The pair, once among the most powerful figures in global soccer, were cleared of fraud at the Extraordinary Appeals Chamber of the Swiss Criminal Court in the town of Muttenz, near Basel. The hearing came about after Swiss federal prosecutors appealed against their 2022 acquittal at a lower court. Both men had denied the charge which related to a 2 million Swiss franc ($2.26 million) payment Blatter
Kasait, Lasoi headline Zwolle Half Marathon as Matata eyes back-to-back Venloop Half Marathon
The 2019 African 5,000m champion Lilian Kasait and two-time Zwolle Half Marathon champion Isaiah Lasoi will spearhead Kenya’s charge at the Prague Half Marathon set for 5 April. Race organizers are expecting fast times with the Kenyan duo leading the charge in the men’s and women’s events. “The Prague Half Marathon course is known for its speed and ideal conditions for fast times. We are excited to welcome such talented athletes and look forward to an exciting race,” said Carlo Capalbo, the chairman of the RunCzech Organizing Committee. The current course record for the Prague Half Marathon is 58:24 set
McCarthy losses first game in charge of Kenya as Stars fall to Gabon at Nyayo
By Greg Mulemi Harambee Stars chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dashed on Sunday afternoon after they went down 2-1 at home to Gabon. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored in each half to ensure visitors stayed on toes with African champions Ivory Coast who are also favorites to qualify for the World Cup to be held in Canada, Mexico and the USA. Kenya playing for the first time on home soil since November 2021, got off a positive start with Anthony Akumu testing Gabon keeper Loyce Mbaba with a long-range effort that was parried away. The visitors replied
Evans wins Safari Rally Kenya to extend WRC lead
Welsh rally driver Elfyn Evans extended his lead at the top of the World Rally Championship’s (WRC) standings with a dominant victory at the grueling Safari Rally Kenya on Sunday. The Toyota driver made it back-to-back wins having won the last round in Sweden and now, after three of the 14 rounds, holds a 36-point lead over defending champion Thierry Neuville in the title race. Evans and co-driver Scott Martin emerged from a grueling 21-stage rally of attrition with victory by 1m09.9s from Hyundai’s Ott Tanak. Reigning world champion Neuville recovered to third, 3m32.0s off Evans, to mark Hyundai’s best-ever Safari result. However,
Kenya Cup: Nondies, Oilers book semis spots after Saturday triumphs
Nondescripts RFC secured a spot in the semifinals of the 2024/25 Kenya Cup after a thrilling 38-22 victory over Kenya Harlequin in a fiercely contested quarterfinal match on Saturday at Ngong Racecourse. This marks Nondies’ second consecutive semifinal appearance since their promotion back to the top tier. The match began with Nondies taking an early lead through a penalty kick by Bruce Odhiambo. However, Quins responded with a converted try to take the lead, only for Odhiambo to narrow the gap to 6-7 with another penalty. Farran Juma extended Quins’ lead with a successful penalty, but Odhiambo struck back with
World Indoor Championships: Ejore carries Kenya’s medal hopes on tough Day 2
After a promising opening day for Kenya at the World Indoor Championships staged in Nanjing, China where four athletes- Lilian Odira, Noah Kibet, Alex Ngeno and Susan Ejore sailed into their respective 800m semi-finals and 1,500m final respectively, Day 2 was a tough outing as no Kenyan progressed to the next stage or won the finals staged on Saturday. Odira, African 800m silver medalist was the first in action on Saturday’s morning session in the women’s 800m semis. The 25-year-old who had clocked 2:04.46 to finish second in Heat 1 on Friday behind Portugal’s Patricia Silva (2:04.44), failed to book
Oilers, Nondies eye Kenya Cup semis as Zetech Oaks and Catholic Monks fight for survival
Menengai Oilers will be banking on home advantage when they welcome Kenyatta University’s Blak Blad to the Nakuru ASK Showground in a high-stakes Kenya Cup playoff clash today. The Nakuru-based side, which finished third in the regular season, is determined to book a semi-final date with second-placed KCB. However, Blak Blad, known for their fast, free-flowing rugby, will be out to cause an upset and keep their championship dreams alive. Meanwhile, the iconic Ngong Road Derby takes center stage as fourth-placed Nondescripts host fifth-placed Kenya Harlequin at the Ngong Racecourse. With a place in the semi-finals against defending champions Kabras
WRC 2025 Safari Rally: Evans, Rovanpera fire Toyota to the top after day 2
Elfyn Evans was on fire as Toyota fought back to claim two top spots on Day 2 of the third leg of the World Rally Championship (WRC), the Safari Rally in Naivasha. Evans clocked 2:00:45.4 to open a 7.7-second lead at the apex where he eclipsed Day 1 leader, Estonian and Hyundai superman Ott Tanak. His teammate and Safari Rally defending champion Kalle Rovanpera (2:00:53.1) ended the day second as Tanak settled for third in 2:01:40.8. World champion, Thierry Neuville of Hyundai strived to move from eighth to fourth, reviving his hope for a first-ever podium finish on Kenyan soil. Carl Tundo was the
McCarthy not giving up on World Cup dream as subs Bajaber, Lenkupae salvage a point for Stars on debut
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy is far from giving up on his dream to inspire the team to its maiden World Cup finals despite dropping points in his first assignment since taking up the role on 3 Friday this month replacing Turkish Engin Firat. McCarthy’s charges came from behind three times to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw against The Gambia in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier staged at the 60, 000 seater Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday night. The two points dropped certainly complicated Stars’ chances of closing in on the two top
Defending champion Rovanpera eyes Safari Rally hat-trick as Tundo braces for tough race
Safari Rally champion Kalle Rovanpera reckons he has what it takes to conquer Kenya’s unforgiving terrains yet again for a third title when the WRC Safari Rally revs off today. The Finnish ace dominated last year’s event, clocking 3:36:04 to clinch victory and bag 20 crucial championship points. His Toyota Gazoo Racing teammate, Japan’s Takamoto Katsuta, secured second place in 3:37:41.8, while Frenchman Adrien Fourmaux completed the podium in 3:38:29.1. Rovanpera’s first taste of Safari Rally glory came in 2022 when he stormed to victory in 3:40:24.9, ahead of Elfyn Evans (3:41:17.7) and Katsuta (3:42:07.6). Alongside his trusted navigator Jonne Halttunen,
Tusker prodigy Opondo eyes Stars starting berth as skipper Olunga hopes Harambee can rewrite history
Fast-rising goalkeeper Brian Opondo is on the brink of realizing his dream of representing Kenya in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The 23-year-old Tusker FC shot-stopper is eager to cement his place in Harambee Stars’ starting lineup for the upcoming clashes against Gabon and Gambia. Opondo faces stiff competition from the experienced Ian Otieno, the 32-year-old custodian who plies his trade for South Africa’s Richards Bay. However, his impressive form in the FKF Premier League has bolstered his case for a starting role. The 23-year-old is a testament to the power of resilience in the dynamic world of football,
Kabras extend dominance over KCB as Nondies book Enterprise Cup final
Kabras RFC dominance in Enterprise Cup continued as they registered their fourth consecutive win over KCB Rugby in the competition with a 25-21 victory at Kakamega Showgrounds. The Sugarmen, who last lost in the Enterprise Cup on April 28, 2018, to Impala in the semifinals, have now booked their fifth consecutive final in the tournament. This was the first semifinal meeting between the two sides, with Kabras having won the last three Enterprise Cup finals against KCB Rugby. KCB took an early lead when Austin Sikutwa slotted in a penalty for a 3-0 advantage after Kabras conceded. However, Kabras had
Kipchoge to race Sydney Marathon
Two-time Olympic marathon gold medalist Eliud Kipchoge will head Down Under to compete at the TCS Sydney Marathon – a World Athletics Platinum Label road race – on Sunday 31 August. Kipchoge is relishing the prospect of racing the TCS Sydney Marathon, which will also mark the event’s debut as part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series. “I am so excited,” said the former world record-holder. “This is not only my first time racing the TCS Sydney Marathon, but also my first time running in Oceania. Competing in Australia is a huge opportunity for me. Sydney looks like a
McLarens vs Verstappen and rain on race day – What To Watch For in the Australian Grand Prix
From McLaren drivers fighting to surprise threats for big points, and from an unsettled weather forecast to new faces in front-running teams starting at the back, here are five things to keep an eye on when the season kicks off in Melbourne… 1. No team orders to start the season Team orders – or ‘Papaya Rules’ at McLaren – were a major talking point in the second half of last year such was the focus on whether there was a chance for Lando Norris to catch Max Verstappen in the drivers’ championship. After the end of the European season, Oscar
Naivasha records surge in hotel bookings ahead of WRC Safari Rally
Naivasha is coming alive as the Service Park for the WRC Safari Rally is being set up, with teams starting to dock their containers in preparation for the event but also the hoteliers are recording booming business ahead of the event set for March 19-23. The championship continues to significantly boost hotel occupancies in Naivasha and its surrounding areas with over 100,000 visitors expected next week for the event. Over the past four years, Naivasha, and by extension, the Moi South Lake Road have witnessed a surge in hospitality infrastructure with hotels springing up, year in year out. According to
Omanyala urges quick reopening of stadia as track season unfolds
Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, has called for the urgent re-opening of Nyayo National Stadium to athletes as the track and field season gathers pace. Kenya’s two major stadiums—Nyayo and Kasarani—remain closed for renovations ahead of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), leaving athletes scrambling for proper training venues. With the World Indoor Championships set to begin in Nanjing, China, from 21-23 March, followed by the World Relays in Guangzhou in 10-11 May, many athletes have been forced to train on murram tracks—far from ideal for elite-level preparation. The 2022 Commonwealth 100m
McCarthy names provisional squad for World Cup qualifiers
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has announced a provisional lineup in preparation for the vital 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where the national team is set to compete against Gabon and Gambia. The squad features a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging young players, underscoring the team’s ambition for these essential matches. Among the fresh faces included in the squad are promising young talents Kelly Madada and Andreas Odhiambo, while midfielder William Lenkupae, currently playing in Australia, receives his inaugural call-up. Reflecting on his selections, Coach McCarthy remarked, “Wednesday will mark my first training camp with locally-based players, allowing
KCB out for revenge as Enterprise Cup semi-finals loom against rivals Kabras
KCB head coach Oliver Mang’eni has set his sights on sweet revenge against Kabras in the upcoming Enterprise Cup semifinal on Saturday after his side fell short in their Kenya Cup showdown. The bankers suffered a 25-17 defeat to their bitter rivals on Saturday at the Kakamega ASK Showground. This win extends their remarkable unbeaten streak to 39 matches in Kenya Cup and have now topped the league standings for six consecutive years. Kabras finished top of the log with 52 points, with KCB hot on their heels at 50, while Menengai Oilers secured third place with 47 points. Despite the
Lionesses fancy HSBC SVNS promotion after back-to-back Challenger Series victories in Cape Town
Kenya Lionesses have taken a significant step towards securing a spot in the HSBC SVNS after a triumphant start in the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025 in Cape Town. The Kenyan women’s sevens team put on a stellar performance, clinching victory in consecutive rounds of the series after battling past Argentina 17-12 in the first round last weekend and stunning hosts South Africa 17-0 in the second round on Saturday. The Lionesses, who reached the final with a come-from-behind 12-5 victory over Colombia in the semis, floored the Women Boks with tries from Naomi Amuguni, Sharon Auma, and Freshia Oduor, with
Breaking one hour barrier to a new era: The evolution of Half Marathon
It was not that many years ago that breaking an hour for the half marathon was an amazing feat. But a fortnight ago, we saw that record dip under 57 minutes. That’s running 4:19 mile pace for 13.1 miles. The half marathon, a 21.0975-kilometer (13.1-mile) race, has long been a benchmark of endurance and speed. For decades, breaking one hour in the event was considered an extraordinary achievement. But as training, technology, and competition have advanced, so have the records. On 16 February, 2025, Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo took the event into a new era, becoming the first person to break
Evolution of men’s and women’s marathon world records
The 42.195km (26.2 miles) might seem like an arbitrary distance, especially in comparison to much rounder distances like 5km, 10km, 20km and 50km, but its importance in the history and development of global athletics cannot be understated. Why? Because it is the official distance of the marathon. Yes, that ultimate test of endurance, speed and willpower that has captured the imagination of athletes around the world for over a century, creating national heroes out of little-known athletes and inspiring amateurs around the globe to challenge their biology and push their bodies to the very limit of what is humanly possible. While
Lord Coe sends warning to age cheats, lauds efforts to curb doping menace
World Athletics president Sebastian Coe has warned that age cheats will be stripped off all their Olympics and World Championships titles they may have won in the past and also serve severe punishment. Coe, who arrived in the country on Wednesday, spoke at a press briefing at Athletes Kenya headquarters, Riadha House after meeting President William Ruto and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya. He was accompanied by Athletes Kenya President Jack Tuwei. The Briton said World Athletics in conjunction with Athletics Kenya have formed task forces that are working to curb age cheating and results manipulation. “We will try to
Dr Kipchumba: Hunt for quick riches stalling Kenyan long-distance dominance
Despite Kenya’s storied history in distance running, the country has struggled to reclaim its throne in the 5,000m and 10,000m men’s events at the World Championships. Dr. Byron Kipchumba, a sports science and management expert, believes the pursuit of instant success has crippled Kenya’s dominance in the men’s long-distance events. Kipchumba holds a PHD in kinesiology, the scientific study of human movement. It includes the study of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and psychology. He further serves as an educator and coach at KIPRUN, a training camp located in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County. Kipchumba further runs a sports medicine organization, “Running the
Daunting task awaits ‘Zulu Warrior’ McCarthy as he starts stint as Harambee Stars coach
Former South African international striker Benni McCarthy will be officially unveiled on Monday afternoon as the new Harambee Stars head coach by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) at Serena Hotel, Nairobi. Benni, fondly known as the “Zulu Warrior” in football circles, is expected to sign a two-year deal that will see him stay in charge until 2027 as he starts his era in the star’s touchline. The soft-spoken McCarthy, who arrived in Nairobi on Thursday last week, has a big reputation and is not only expected to sharpen the Harambe Stars frontline but ensure fluidity in midfield and also tighten
Kenya Cup: Kabras Sugar too sweet for Oilers as KCB humiliate Impala
Reigning champions Kabras Sugar kept their dream of hosting the Kenya Cup final alive after a hard-fought 20-14 victory over arch-rivals Menengai Oilers in a tense Rai Derby encounter. The Sugar Men rallied from 14-13 down at the break to tame inspired Oilers at the Nakuru Showground on Saturday. While the win kept Kabras in the hunt, eight-time champions KCB upheld their league table leadership heading into the final round of matches next weekend after humiliating Impala 64-14 at KCB Sports Club, Ruaraka on Friday. The Bankers sit top on 50 points including 10 bonus points as four times champions Kabras trail KCB on
Ethiopian duo of Takele and Kebede earn wins in Tokyo
The Tokyo Marathon opened the 2025 World Major Marathon season. On the men’s side, Tadese Takele won in 2:03:23, achieving a personal best time by one second and earning his first World Major Marathon win. Takele had set his previous personal best (2:03:24) during a third place finish at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. Fellow Ethiopian Deresa Geleta finished in second in 2:03:51 and Kenyan Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich finished third in 2:04:00. Kenyan Titus Kipruto finished fourth in 2:05:34. On the women’s side, Ethiopian Sutume Asefa Kebede followed up her 2024 Tokyo Marathon victory with another first place title in 2025,
Kenya Cup: Focus on Rai Derby as Oilers, Kabras clash in Nakuru
The Rai derby between Menengai Oilers and Kabras Sugar is set to be the highlight of this weekend’s Kenya Cup action as the battle for a home semi-final and potential hosting rights for the final intensify. With only two rounds left in the regular season, every point counts, and both sides will be eager to stake their claim as title contenders when they meet at the ASK Showground in Nakuru. Menengai Oilers, currently third with 41 points, are looking to keep their chances of finishing in the top two alive. A win over the defending champions would put them in
Wanjiru ready to silence rivals as Kipruto seeks crown defence in Tokyo tomorrow
The 2023 Tokyo Marathon champion Rosemary Wanjiru will be making another grand return to the streets of Tokyo, Japan for another scintillating marathon tomorrow full of confidence she claim comes from adequate training at her base in Iten. Wanjiru, who placed second last year and is the 2022 Berlin Marathon runner-up returns to a country where her athletics career was birthed. As she sets out to reclaim her 2023 title, Wanjiru said yesterday that she only hoped to run a good race in the first World Marathon Major of 2025. “When I start the race on Sunday, my prayer will
Kenya Special Olympics team intensifies preparations for 2025 World Winter Games
Kenya’s contingent for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games has received a major boost as they ramp up preparations for the global competition set to take place in Turin, Italy, from 7-16 March, 2025. The team, which will compete in floorball, is eager to make a mark on the international stage as they join over 1,500 athletes from more than 100 countries in the prestigious event. The World Winter Games, being held for the first time since 2017, will take place in Italy’s Piedmont Region, bringing together athletes with intellectual disabilities in a showcase of skill, resilience, and sportsmanship.
Kenya Lionesses kick-off World Seven Series qualification this weekend in South Africa
Kenya Lionesses start their quest for qualification to the World Sevens Series this weekend with the opening tournament at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa. Last season, Dennis Mwanja’s charges missed out on the top four final shoot-out in Madrid after finishing fifth and the coach admitted they have learnt their lessons from the event. Poland clinched the fourth slot and went on to the final shootout in Madrid. The Lionesses had an intense three-month training phase coupled with playing build-up matches against Poland at the RFUEA Ground last month. The team arrived in Cape Town on Tuesday
S. Africa bids for first African F1 grand prix in 30 years
Three decades after Formula One engines last roared on African tarmac, South Africa is mounting a bid to organize a new Grand Prix and bring the world championship back to the continent. Competition to host the high-octane spectacle is between two tracks: a street circuit in Cape Town and the less picturesque but historic Kyalami race track outside of Johannesburg. A committee set up by sports minister Gayton McKenzie will choose the winning bid in the third quarter of the year, committee member Mlimandlela Ndamase told AFP. McKenzie is confident about South Africa’s chances. “The Grand Prix is definitely coming
Who is Benni McCarthy, incoming Harambee Stars head coach
Benni McCarthy a name synonymous with South African football, is set to take on a new challenge as the head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars. The ex-Manchester United first-team forwards coach is poised to be introduced as the new head on Monday, 3 March as per a statement released by the Football Kenya Federation Thursday. The unveiling ceremony will occur at Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) Pavilion at 1:45pm, attended by key FKF officials and other stakeholders. McCarthy will take over from Francis Kimanzi, who has been serving on an interim capacity since 11 December, following the exit of Turkish
Given the Right Conditions, Could a Woman Run a 4-Minute Mile?
Nearly three-quarters of a century after Roger Bannister of Britain, in 1954, became the first man to run a mile in under four minutes, an achievement that many at the time thought unattainable, scientists are saying they believe a woman could now also break the barrier and further expand the limits of human possibility. A study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science on Tuesday theorizes that Faith Kipyegon, the women’s mile world record holder, could feasibly run a time of 3:59.37 as soon as this year by sufficiently reducing aerodynamic drag with improved drafting off pacesetters. Kipyegon, who
Prime suspect in Agnes Tirop murder goes AWOL
Ibrahim Rotich, the prime suspect in the killing of former women’s only 10km road running world record holder Agnes Tirop has gone AWOL. Rotich therefore risks his cancellation of his bond after failing to turn up in court during the hearing of the murder case against him on Wednesday. It was a no show for Rotich at Eldoret High Court where the Presiding Judge Robert Wananda had allocated the entire day for the trial of his case. The court had given Rotich a Sh400,000 bond with two similar sureties or a cash bail of Sh500,000 two years ago following his second bond
Odera wants Shujaa to sharpen attack, defence to maintain core status
Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) director of rugby Paul Odera wants Shujaa to improve on accuracy in attack and tackle completion in the defence if they are to keep their core status next season. Kevin Wambua’s charges had a weekend to forget in Vancouver, Canada, last weekend, losing all six matches to finish last in the three-day competition. They remain ninth on the log with 15 points. The gap between Shujaa, who are ninth and Great Britain, who are eighth on the log has ballooned to 17 points—leaving Kenya with a mountain to climb in the next two tournaments. Shujaa have to
Shabana coach disappointed after conceding late in draw against Tusker
Shabana head coach Peter Okidi could hardly contain his disappointment after his charges conceded late in the match to draw 1-1 against Tusker at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on Wednesday. Okidi said the outcome demonstrated the importance of seizing opportunities early enough in high-stake encounters. “The players displayed an impressive blend of skill and determination, overcoming the challenges posed by a tough side,” Okidi said. “We, however, experienced some concentration lapses that ultimately led us to concede late in the game,” he added. The match, a symphony of skill and determination and a captivating dance between two local titans witnessed a
Rudisha cautions athletes against too many races ahead of global championships
Two-time Olympic 800m champion David Rudisha has advised athletes against competing in many races in the build-up to the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Japan in September. There has been an emergence of track leagues, including the Grand Slam Track League, which offers athletes lucrative prize money but the price the athletes have to pay is competing in many races. The track league will be held in four different locations, including Kingston, Miami, Philadelphia and Los Angeles. However, Rudisha has explained that it is unwise for athletes to compete in many races, revealing that it will lead to fatigue before they
Veteran coach urges Kenya to bid for more international events buoyed by previous events success
Veteran and renowned athletics coach Patrick Sang’ has urged Athletics Kenya (AK) to bid for bigger competitions to increase Kenya’s stature as a sports destination. Sang’, who trains double-Olympics marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge and triple Olympics champion Faith Kipyegon says the country has proven its ability and capacity to host world-class events hence the need for the federation to aim higher. “Any sport is driven by the viewers and fans. Every time we have hosted world events, our rating have gone very high. I know the president Jack Tuwei will do more to bring us the bigger ones (events),” Sang’
‘Five’! Yego’s lucky charm as he banks on past Asian exploits to reclaim world title
Julius Yego, the 2016 Olympic men’s javelin throw silver medalist is once again setting his sights on global glory. As he prepares for the Tokyo World Championships slated for 13-21 September, Yego is relying on more than just his physical prowess– a lucky charm. The 36-year-old, affectionately known as the “YouTube man,” made his mark by learning javelin techniques through online tutorials, and now he’s back on the world stage, hoping to claim his first-ever World Championship gold. Yego, the four-time African Champion, has already secured his spot in Team Kenya to Tokyo thanks to his 87.72m impressive throw at
Ebenyo, Ng’etich rule Sirikwa Classic Cross Country
A last minute decision to compete at the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country at the Lobo Village, Eldoret on Saturday for Daniel Ebenyo Simiu paid off as he made history as the first man to defend his title. Ebenyo who won his first Sirikwa 10km title in 2024 (29:16) had opted out of the championships to concentrate on his preparations for his second marathon race- the Seoul Marathon set for 16 March in South Korea. “I saw my name and images on the advertising boards and that made me change my mind and decide to give it a shot. Am so
MozzartBet Cup: Will minnows stun the ‘Big Dogs’ like in the past?
The Football Kenya Federation Premier League takes a break this weekend to usher in the MozzartBet Cup 2025 Round of 64 fixtures played all over the country. On 17 February, MozzartBet, the official sponsors of the tournament conducted the draw for the competition in Nairobi, a draw that presented relatively easy matchups for FKF Premier League teams, as they have been paired against lower-tier and non-league opposition. MozzartBet Cup is is the top knockout tournament in Kenyan football and is the Kenyan equivalent to the FA Cup. It was started in the 1950s. This tournament gives opportunities to local teams
Litmus test for Shujaa in Vancouver Sevens Series in promotion duel
Shujaa faces a litmus test as the World Sevens Series resumes this weekend in Vancouver, Canada. Kevin Wambua’s charges are in a tough pool ‘A’ where they kick-start their preliminary rounds campaign against high-flying Argentina at 12:08 am on Saturday at the BC Place. The two sides last met at the Cape Town Sevens in December with the South American running out 26-14 winners. Shujaa arrived in Vancouver on Sunday and had four days to prepare and acclimatize to the cold and wintery conditions in the Canadian city. Wambua said Argentina are a physical side that will test them accordingly.
Kenya Open: Charania holds Kenya hopes as European duo take lead
John Parry of England and Benjamin Hebert of France topped the 2025 Magical Kenya Open (MKO) golf championship leaderboard on Day One yesterday at Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi on eight under par-63 apiece. The duo was followed in second place by Jayden Schaper of South Africa who fired seven under par 64 in the hot unforgiving weather. Defending champion Darius Van Driel of Netherlands did not fare well as he had planned for the day, ending the opening round on a two under, but he was hopeful to turn the tables on the second day where he will be
Three record holders take on each other in quest for Sirikwa 10km glory
Three world record holders are set to clash at the most-awaited Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country- the final Gold meeting in this season’s World Athletics Cross Country Tour, on the outskirts of Eldoret Town this Saturday. Triple Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon, who is also the women’s world record holder over the distance, World 10km record-holder Agnes Jebet Ngetich and Women’s marathon world record holder Ruth Chepng’etich will collide in the senior women’s 10km race during the fourth edition. Kipyegon, the four-time world champion, will endeavor to reclaim the title she ran away with during the 2023 edition, where she clocked
KSSSA introduces strict measures to curb age cheating
The Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) has introduced strict guidelines for this year’s games to curb age cheating. KSSSA Secretary General David Ngugi last year raised concerns about the malpractice, prompting the association to implement tight measures to ensure fair play. In a statement, KSSSA announced that all student-athletes must present school identity cards containing new key details. “Students competing in the games are required to have school IDs that display their full names, admission, class and date, date of birth and KCPE year,” the statement read in part. “Further, the ID is required to have a UPI (Unique Personal Identifier)