Athletics Kenya (AK) is brimming with confidence as the nation’s Under-20 team embarks on its journey to Lima, Peru, for the upcoming World Athletics U-20 Championships, scheduled to take place from August 27 to 31, 2024. The team, composed of 19 talented athletes, is ready to compete on the global stage, with high hopes of building on the country’s rich legacy in athletics.
Barnabas Korir, the head of youth development at AK, expressed his optimism about the team’s potential to excel at the Championships. Korir emphasized that the rigorous preparations undertaken by the athletes have left the federation confident in their ability to perform well. “Our athletes have undergone intensive training and have shown exceptional dedication. We have a blend of experienced runners and promising newcomers who have the potential to bring home medals,” Korir stated.
The Kenyan team’s preparation has been nothing short of meticulous. With a history of excellence in middle and long-distance running, the country is renowned for producing world-class athletes who dominate these categories. The U-20 team is expected to uphold this legacy as they step onto the track in Lima.
Kenya’s performance at the previous World Athletics U-20 Championships in Cali, Colombia, in 2022, was commendable. The team finished fourth overall, clinching three gold, three silver, and four bronze medals. However, they trailed behind traditional athletics powerhouses like the United States, Jamaica, and Ethiopia, who won seven, six, and six gold medals, respectively. This time around, the Kenyan team is determined to improve its standing and challenge these dominant nations.
The competition in Lima is expected to be fierce, with countries like the United States, Jamaica, and Ethiopia once again fielding strong teams. These nations have consistently produced top-tier athletes who excel in various track and field events. Nevertheless, Korir remains unfazed, focusing on the readiness of Team Kenya to face any challenge head-on. He highlighted that the emphasis has been on ensuring the athletes are both mentally and physically prepared to take on the competition.
Several athletes within the current squad are already making waves in the local and international circuits, signaling their readiness for the challenge ahead. Among them are Africa 800m champion Sarah Moraa and African silver medallist Edmond Serem, who will be leading the team in Lima. Their experience and leadership are expected to inspire their teammates and boost the overall performance of the squad.
The World Athletics U-20 Championships serve as a crucial platform for young athletes to showcase their skills on the global stage. It is a stepping stone for many aspiring athletes who aim to transition into the senior ranks and compete at the highest levels of athletics. For Kenya, nurturing young talent has always been a priority, and the U-20 Championships provide an opportunity to do just that.
“As a federation, we are committed to nurturing young talent and providing them with the necessary support to excel. The World Athletics U20 Championships is a crucial platform for these athletes to showcase their skills and gain invaluable experience,” Korir added. He believes that the experiences gained in Lima will be instrumental in shaping the future of Kenyan athletics, with many of these athletes expected to represent the country in future global competitions.
As the team departs for Lima, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation among the athletes, coaches, and officials. The country’s hopes are pinned on these young stars, who are not only aiming for medals but also for personal bests and national pride. With the weight of history and the expectations of a nation on their shoulders, Team Kenya is ready to make its mark at the World Athletics U-20 Championships in Lima.
