Kenya wheelchair boxing team emerges second in World Paralympics

Overall the team won a trophy for being the most disciplined team.

In Summary
  • The team headed by the President of Kenya's para boxing team in Mary Atieno emerged second in 3 categories.
  • Evans Odhiambo Absalom won gold in the Heavyweight category while Emmanuel Yakavi won in the Lightweight category.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko during his visit to Shauri Moyo Social Hall in March where he donated Uniform and visas to the team.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko during his visit to Shauri Moyo Social Hall in March where he donated Uniform and visas to the team.
Image: FILE

Kenya's wheelchair boxing team emerged second in the World Paralympic boxing competition held in Poland.

The team headed by the President of Kenya's para boxing team in Mary Atieno emerged second in 3 categories.

Evans Odhiambo Absalom won gold in the Heavyweight category while Emmanuel Yakavi won in the Lightweight category.

Speaking to the media, Atieno said that the team was able to perform well due to support from well-wishers.

"We are happy that we were able to represent Kenya internationally and we emerged number two winning gold in two categories," she reiterated

Overall the team won a trophy for being the most disciplined team.

In March, the team got a reprieve after former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko visited them after pleading with well-wishers to address the needs and challenges faced by the disabled.

The athletes sought assistance from former Governor Sonko.

Sonko paid for their visas and competition uniforms.

He further gave them training kitties including globes punching bags and wheelchairs

"Sonko's intervention came in handy when we were able to train with the equipment bought. The sports ministry also helped us with accommodation," Mary stated.

In the competition, Poland emerged number one and Portugal number 3.

Six teams were competing.

The team jetted back on Thursday.