• “We believe we can achieve great things at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and inspire future generations of Paralympic athletes,” Chudasama said.
• Leading the charge are Nancy Chelangat (Guide Geoffrey Rotich), Mary Waithera (Guide James Boit) and Prisca Jepkemoi (Guide Kenneth Lagat) in the 1,500m T11 category.
Image: HANDOUT
Kenya National Paralympics Committee (KNPC) vice president Bhaveet Chudasama believes Kenya will dominate at the upcoming Paralympic Games slated for August 28-September 8 in Paris.
A team of 14 para-athletes will represent the country in Paris and will feature in five disciplines.
The squad blends seasoned veterans with promising newcomers, all poised to shine in the French capital.
“We believe we can achieve great things at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and inspire future generations of paralympic athletes,” Chudasama said.
Leading the charge are Nancy Chelang'at (Guide Geoffrey Rotich), Mary Waithera (Guide James Boit) and Prisca Jepkemoi (Guide Kenneth Lagat) in the 1,500m T11 category.
Other athletic stars include John Lokedi (5,000m T13), Wesley Sang (1,500m T46), Samson Ojuka (Long Jump T37), and Sheila Wanyonyi (Javelin F12).
Joining the athletics contingent is Dedan, a cycling sensation who recently clinched four gold medals at the Africa Para-cycling Championships in Cairo. He will be joined by fellow cyclist Kennedy Ogada.
The dynamic duo of Stacy Neema and Julieta Moipo fly the nation's flag in taekwondo, while Asiya Sururu will compete in rowing.
Completing the team is powerlifter Hellen Wawira, fresh from the World Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she secured her Paris spot with a strong world ranking.
The team’s preparation and participation will be buoyed by a Sh5 million sponsorship deal from Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) through their flagship brand Tusker.
In addition to the financial contribution, the sponsorship also includes the provision of locally crafted travelling kits for the Paralympians. Chudasama emphasised the significance of KBL's support.
“We are delighted to partner with Tusker on this journey. This sponsorship is a significant boost to our team’s morale and preparation. The financial support, coupled with the provision of a travel kit, demonstrates Tusker’s commitment to our athletes’ well-being and success,” he said.
Speaking during the sponsorship presentation at EABL Offices, Mark Ocitti, KBL managing director, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting Kenyan athletes.
“Tusker has always been a champion of the Kenyan spirit and our paralympic athletes exemplify the very best of our nation. We are honoured to partner with these extraordinary individuals who embody the true spirit of Kenya.”
Ocitti added, “Our commitment extends beyond financial support. By providing official travel kits, crafted by Kenyans for Kenyans, we aim to boost the team’s morale and showcase the talent of our nation. We are confident that this team will make Kenya proud.”
He further emphasised the role of sports in uniting Kenyans. “Through this sponsorship, we aim to bring Kenyans together behind our Paralympic team. Their success will not only inspire the nation but also contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society.”