Eyes on Tokyo: Kenya's Road to Global Athletic Dominance

Dubbed "Road to Tokyo," the calendar of activities is meticulously designed to prepare Team Kenya for global athletic excellence. This comprehensive program includes a mix of local and international competitions, providing athletes with valuable experience and opportunities to fine-tune their skills. By participating in a diverse range of events, Kenyan athletes are honing their abilities and building the confidence necessary to compete at the highest level on the world stage.

At a recent event held at the Weston Hotel in Nairobi, Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the importance of collaboration and goal-setting as the Athletics Kenya (AK) unveiled its comprehensive 2024/25 calendar.

Addressing athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts, Murkomen urged everyone to work together towards achieving measurable and long-term goals for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. He stressed the significance of the calendar, which features a diverse range of events including cross-country, marathon, track and field, and mountain running.

Principal Secretary Peter Tum echoed Murkomen's sentiments, highlighting the potential for Kenyan athletes to excel on the global stage. "With this extensive calendar, we have a unique opportunity to showcase our country's rich athletic heritage and inspire the next generation of champions," Tum stated.

The CS further noted that the calendar presents a great opportunity for the federation to partner with the corporate sector to identify and nurture talent during local competitions.

"Collaborating with the corporate sector is crucial for identifying new talent. We must diversify our sports portfolio to increase our potential for winning more international medals. Our six medals at the Olympics fall short of our true capabilities," said Murkomen.

Tum remarked that the Road to Tokyo reflects an organization focused on long-term goals, prioritizing athletes in their decision-making.

"Success requires organization, so I want to commend AK for being a well-organized federation. I'm pleased with our discussions in the CS's office about the upcoming elections, and I’m confident everything will proceed smoothly," the PS stated.

Ak president Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jack Tuwei noted that the upcoming season presents numerous opportunities for all stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, managers, the federation, and corporate partners.

“Athletics Kenya is uniquely positioned as the CS has directed us to pursue support beyond government funding. Consequently, we have reached out to several corporations for assistance on our Road to Tokyo,” stated Lt Gen (Rtd) Tuwei.

He also noted that the federation is adopting technological innovations to fulfill its role as the sport's governing body.

"The future of athletics globally will be shaped by the speed of digital development. Over the next five years, we anticipate advancements in artificial intelligence, data, sports entertainment, and augmented reality," he stated.

This Saturday's Betika Cross Country in Kericho kicks off the new calendar year, followed by the Run for Health and Fitness 10k Run in Eldoret on Sunday.