This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
On September 17, 2019, the inaugural Africa Deaf Athletes Championships kicked off at Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi, with Kenya making a strong impression.
World Junior 200m women deaf record holder Beryl Wamira, 24, led the charge, winning the women's 100m event with a time of 12.87 seconds.
She was followed closely by Nigeria's Assurance Omoria, who finished in 13.21 seconds, and Kenyan Ruth Awuor, who wrapped up the podium finishers in 13.58 seconds.
"The race was hard because I was not feeling well before it started. I am happy with the win because together with my coach, we have been training hard. My ambition is to represent Kenya in more future events," said an elated Wamira.
Kenya's dominance continued in the men's 10,000m event, with the country sweeping all three podium places. Martin Gache won the race in 31 minutes and 15 seconds, ahead of Peter Toroitich and Amos Kiplagat, who finished in 31:53 and 33:05 respectively.
Three other Kenyan athletes, Elisha Wekesa, Walter Malenje, and Paul Simiyu, progressed to the men's 100 meters finals, which took place on Wednesday, after starring in their respective heats.
However, it was a bad day for the hosts in the 800m women's finals, with Ugandan Jeniffer Nyakato emerging victorious in 2:08:3 minutes, ahead of Ethiopian Asaku Rega and Alam Asfaw.
