This archive report was first published on 22 December 2019.
Published on December 22, 2019, by AYUMBA AYODI, a renowned sports journalist.
Kenya's athletics scene is witnessing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the World Under-20 Championships camps in South Rift's Emurua Dikirr and Nyanza North's Sang'oro. These camps have presented unique setups that may revolutionize the sport in the future.
At the Narok camp, Africa Under-20 javelin champion Ita Nao is leading a team of 36 athletes, including 17 talented girls who are poised to become world beaters. The camp, held at Emanyata Athletics Club in Emurua Dikirr Primary School, is a testament to the changing Maasai culture, where girls are now encouraged to participate in sports.
On the other hand, the Nyanza North camp at Sang'oro Secondary School has attracted an estimated 30 out of 40 juniors who are sprinters. This is a clear indication of where Athletics Kenya should focus its energies to produce quality athletes in the sprinting field.
Coach James ole Seur, in charge of the Emurua Dikirr camp, highlighted the challenges faced by Maasai women in sports, including lack of support, early marriage, and inadequate equipment. He emphasized the need for resources to help these talented athletes reach their full potential.
Ita Nao, the team captain, expressed his amazement at the turnout of girls and attributed it to the changing cultural attitudes towards girls' participation in sports. He recalled that only one girl attended a similar camp during the 2017 World Under-18 Championships in Kenya.
