The second edition of the Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wa Raia Cup football tournament enters the sub county level this weekend.
A total of 80 teams, 20 from each of the four sub counties will battle it out across the devolved unit.
The competition began at the village level after which they proceeded to the ward level where 20 teams from each ward progressed to the sub county level.
The winners, from each of Marakwet West, Keiyo South, Marakwet East and Keiyo North will proceed to the county level.
The first round of the tournament attracted more than 300 teams.
The final is scheduled for next weekend where the winners will walk away Sh1m richer.
Among the guests expected to grace the occasion include Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen (Youth and Sports), Hassan Joho (Mining and Blue Economy), Governors Susan Kihika (Nakuru), Johnson Sakaja (Nairobi), Jonathan Bii (Uasin Gishu), Simon Kachapin (West Pokot) and Benjamin Cheboi from Baringo.
The tournament will be used to identify and nurture talent.
Governor Wisley Rotich said the tournament seeks to promote sportsmanship, social cohesion, talent identification and healthy living.
“This year’s finals will produce new winners. I am encouraged by the high standards of football displayed by our youth deep down in the village. I urge all football clubs to come and scouting of players,” he said.
The teams include newcomers Kapchebau, Embomir Youngsters, Kapkuto and Kapyego City Warriors from Marakwet East Sub County. The matches will be played on Saturday at Kararia Field in Kapyego Ward.
In Keiyo North, Kibendo, Anin, Kipsoen and Kamotony FC will battle at Iten Sports grounds.
Kapsowar Girls will host Marakwet West matches pitting Kirbei, Chebiemit and Kaptabuk while Chemosong, Yatoi Black Mambas and Kapcherop Riders will be at Kapkoros Primary School.
In Keiyo South, last year’s semifinalists Kipsaina FC will host Keibor and Green Eagles FC at Chepkorio showground while Menone, Joshwood and G Nuts FC will square it out at Lelbloinet Secondary School.