Athletics Kenya (AK) has issued a strong appeal to the Kenyan government for increased support following a disappointing performance by Kenyan athletes at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The federation is urging a reassessment of how resources are allocated to sports in the country, emphasizing that a lack of modern facilities, inadequate training, and insufficient funding are to blame for the recent underwhelming results.
Barnabas Korir, AK’s Youth and Development Director, has been vocal in defending Kenyan athletes while highlighting the systemic issues affecting their performance. According to Korir, the subpar results at the Paris Olympics are a direct consequence of a shift in global athletics dynamics. He points out that European and American athletes are making significant strides, particularly in events traditionally dominated by Kenyans, such as the 1500m and 5000m races.
“The Europeans are increasingly dominating in the 1500m, and they have also made substantial progress in the 5000m, alongside the Americans who are performing exceptionally well,” Korir stated. “This shift underscores the necessity of focusing on our talented athletes by providing them with top-notch training facilities and well-trained coaches.”
Korir’s remarks come against a backdrop of growing concerns regarding Kenya’s preparedness and the resources available to its athletes. Historically, Kenya has been a powerhouse in middle and long-distance running. However, recent years have seen other nations narrow the gap, largely due to their substantial investment in sports infrastructure and comprehensive training programs.
The federation is advocating for a revival of Kenya’s athletic prowess by ensuring that athletes have access to modern training facilities that meet international standards. Many Kenyan athletes currently train under basic conditions, which may not adequately prepare them for the rigors of global competitions. The disparity in training environments between Kenya and other leading nations has become increasingly apparent.
Athletics Kenya is calling for an overhaul in the approach to athlete preparation, which includes improved healthcare services to prevent injuries and aid in faster recovery, as well as better nutrition to enhance performance. These elements are crucial in helping athletes perform at their peak and are often areas where other countries excel due to significant government and private sector investments.
Korir emphasized that the success of American athletes is a result of robust government funding directed towards their training programs. He argues that Kenya must follow suit by investing in the same way to regain its competitive edge. “The Americans are running very well not because of luck but due to substantial government investment in their training,” he said.
In response to the challenges highlighted, AK is advocating for increased funding to cover the costs of training camps, equipment, and participation in international competitions. The federation is hopeful that the government will recognize the urgency of these needs and act accordingly to bolster Kenya’s standing in global athletics.
As Kenya looks to the future, the need for substantial investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development becomes increasingly clear. By addressing these gaps, Kenya can aim to restore its reputation as a leading force in athletics and ensure that its athletes are well-prepared to compete at the highest levels.
