The Kenya Tong IL Moo-Do national team, popularly known as Jasiri, has ramped up their training in anticipation of the 12th edition of the Mombasa Open International Championship. Initially scheduled to kick off this weekend, the championship has been postponed to next weekend (August 31 to September 1) due to delays in the release of sponsorship funds by the government. Despite this setback, the team’s resolve remains strong, with their eyes set on defending their title and continuing their decade-long dominance in the sport.
Intensive Preparation and Unyielding Determination
Under the leadership of head coach Ibrahim Mchumba, the Jasiri team has been rigorously preparing for the upcoming championship. Mchumba expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, highlighting that they have had a full squad for the past two weeks. “We understand it will be a hard task to defend our title and continue with a good run which we have had for the last 11 years. That’s why we are leaving nothing to chance as we prepare,” said Mchumba.
The additional week of preparation, resulting from the postponement, is seen as an opportunity for the team to fine-tune their strategies and polish their skills further. Mchumba acknowledged the support from the federation, which has been instrumental in helping the team maintain their focus despite the financial challenges.
A Blend of Experience and Youth
Jasiri’s captain, Elvis Malipe, expressed his excitement about the upcoming competition, emphasizing the team’s readiness to face the international contenders. This year, the Kenyan team will present a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents, a strategy they believe will give them a competitive edge.
“We are very happy to welcome all the teams in Mombasa but they should be ready to face the undisputed Kenyan team,” Malipe stated confidently. He also mentioned the logistical preparations that are underway, including the arrival of officials and the procurement of essential equipment needed for the tournament. The captain noted the importance of timely funding, which is crucial for ensuring a smooth execution of the event.
Support from the Government and the Push for Olympic Inclusion
In a recent meeting with Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, the Tong Il Moo-Do Federation Kenya was reassured of the government’s commitment to supporting all sports federations, including those that have been previously overlooked. Malipe, who also serves as the Assistant Secretary General for the federation, expressed optimism that this support will help in elevating the sport to new heights.
“We had a meeting with the Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen and he committed to support all federations that have been neglected before, and we are hopeful he will change the narrative and start bringing us on the table and sharing the cake favorably across all federations,” Malipe added.
The aspiration to see Tong Il Moo-Do included in the Olympic Games is a key motivator for the organizers and participants of the Mombasa Championship. Grand Master Takamitsu Hoshiko, President of the international Tong Il Moo-Do body, underscored the significance of the event as a stepping stone towards Olympic inclusion.
“We want to be admitted in the Olympics. The tournament we are having here in Mombasa is a stepping stone. We have teams from all over the world and I think with this push we can make it,” Hoshiko remarked during his inspection of the tournament arena at Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa. He also commended the Kenyan government for its support in fostering the growth of the sport, noting that such backing is crucial for their Olympic ambitions.
International Participation and Global Recognition
The Mombasa Open International Championship has attracted teams from across the globe, including from the USA, India, Turkey, and Nigeria. As of Saturday, these teams had already joined the Mombasa camp, with more delegations expected, bringing the total number of participating teams to 27. This international presence not only highlights the global appeal of Tong Il Moo-Do but also emphasizes the importance of the Mombasa Championship in the broader context of the sport’s development.
As the countdown to the championship begins, the Kenyan team, supported by a passionate federation and a hopeful government, is poised to showcase their skills on an international stage. With their Olympic dream within reach, the Mombasa Open International Championship stands as a critical milestone in the journey of Tong Il Moo-Do towards global recognition.
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