Athletics Kenya to conduct national trials for World U20 Championships in Lima

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Athletics Kenya to conduct national trials for World U20 Championships in Lima

Festus Chuma 15:14 - 18.06.2024

AK is gearing up for the national trials to select top young athletes for the World U20 Championships in Lima.

Athletics Kenya (AK) has officially announced the national trials for the World Under 20 Athletics Championships, which will be held at Nyayo National Stadium from June 26 to 28.

This critical event will determine the athletes who will represent Kenya in the upcoming World Under 20 Championships scheduled to take place in Lima, Peru, from August 27 to 31.

The two-day trials will be exclusive to athletes under the age of 20, and AK has emphasized the importance of strict adherence to the age requirement.

To ensure compliance, all participants must present specific documents for vetting on Wednesday, June 26, at the Nyayo National Stadium.

These documents include the original birth certificate, original passport, student identification, national identification card (if applicable), release letter from the school, and parental consent.

"The top two finishers in each category of competition will be selected in the final team to represent the country at the World Under 20 Championships, set for Lima, Peru, on August 27-31.

Most importantly, those to be selected must meet the entry qualification standards for their respective disciplines as outlined by World Athletics," reads a statement from AK.

The federation's intent is clear: to select a team that surpasses the achievements of the last edition of the championships in Cali, Colombia, where Kenya amassed an impressive 10 medals—three gold, three silver, and four bronze.

To this end, AK has been collaborating closely with the Ministry of Sports through the Sports Arts and Social Development Fund (SASDF).

This collaboration has facilitated the establishment and management of training camps across the country, focusing on identifying, nurturing, and preparing young talent.

These training camps, held during school holidays, have been pivotal in the development of young athletes.

They offer specialized training and an environment where promising athletes can be closely monitored and guided.

This project, operational since 2016, has already yielded significant results.

Notable athletes such as world record holder for the women's 10,000m, Beatrice Chebet, mile world record holder Emmanuel Wanyonyi, and World Under 20 1500m champion Reynold Cheruiyot are products of this initiative.

AK is optimistic about the upcoming trials believing that the extensive groundwork laid over the years will pay off.

The federation's confidence is bolstered by the emergence of these young athletes who have gone on to win medals on the international stage.

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