This is the first time Kenya will be hosting the African Cup and the Kenya Triathlon Federation is using strategically to assist more Kenyan athletes to get exposure to international standards competi
Kenya is set to host the Africa Triathlon Cup Championships in Kilifi County on the 27th of next month, where more than 25 local athletes expected to compete in the event organized by the World and Africa Triathlon Federations.
This is the first time Kenya will be hosting the African Cup and the Kenya Triathlon Federation is using strategically to assist more Kenyan athletes to get exposure to international standards competition.
They will also earn points which will help them improve their world rankings that count in their qualification pathway to Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The National Federation has also partnered with the National Olympic Committee to sponsor the event, with the latter offering a financial help of Sh927,000 towards hosting of the event.
Speaking while receiving the sponsorship, the Kenya Triathlon Federation Treasurer Rommel Lukila expressed his elation 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,” he said.
He added; “Usually, Kenya takes about ten 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 lauded 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,” he said.