Team Kenya for the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, scheduled for August 28 to September 8 will feature 14 athletes across five disciplines.
Recent additions include Bedan Ireri (cycling) and Hellen Wawira (powerlifting). The other disciplines are athletics, taekwondo and rowing.
Ireri rose from street life to winning four gold medals at the Africa Para-cycling Championships in Cairo while Wawira is ranked seventh globally in powerlifting.
“Ireri’s achievements are truly inspiring. From the streets to the international stage, his story is a beacon of hope,” said KNPC’s Ronald Milare.
Ireri's victories in time-trial and road racing secured his place in Paris while Wawira’s consistent performances at the World Powerlifting Championships in Georgia earned her a well-deserved spot.
Para-athletics remains a stronghold for Kenya with Samuel Mushai, John Lokedi and Priscah Jepkemei leading the charge.
Mushai targets a fifth Paralympic appearance after dominating the 5,000m T11 at the national trials in Eldoret.
“Mushai’s commitment over the years is unparalleled. His experience will be invaluable in Paris,” Milare said.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) awarded additional slots to Samson Ojuka and Sheila Wanyonyi following their impressive performances at the World Para-Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan.
Debutants Stacy Neema and Julieta Moipo in taekwondo and Asiya Sururu in rowing exemplify the expanding talent pool.
The middle and distance runners are honing their skills at the Eliud Kipchoge Complex in Kapsabet, cyclists are training in Murang’a and powerlifters are at Nyayo Stadium.
Ojuka and Wanyonyi train at the Moi Stadium, Kasarani, while Sururu is at Kesses Dam.
The team will depart for a pre-Paralympic camp in Compiegne, France, on August 7. The camp will also host teams from Mexico and India.
“We are thrilled about the Compiegne camp. It offers our athletes the best preparation for the Games,” said Milare.
