Deaf Athletics National Trials To Kick Off This Wednesday At Moi International Sports Center- Kasarani

Safaricom has today announced a KES 2.5 Million sponsorship for the National Deaf Track & Field Championships scheduled to take place on 24th and 25th July at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

During the trials, the Deaf Athletics Association of Kenya (DAAK) will select the team that will represent the country at the first Africa Deaf Athletics Championships that will be hosted in Kenya from 16th to 22nd September 2019.

“Over the last 6 years, we have seen many aspiring deaf athletes get a platform to display their abilities on track and field giving them a chance to participate and represent the country in Regional International meets. We are proud to have walked with DAAK during this inspiring journey,” said Michael Joseph, Safaricom CEO.

“With athletes such as Juster Kwamesa and Peter Rutto having represented Kenya at the World Championships, we have no doubt that they will make us proud at the Africa Deaf championships,” said Mr.Joseph.

Athletes are expected to participate in the event, which will feature various categories such as the 10,000m, 5,000m and 3000m steeplechase races as well as race walking, javelin, shot put, triple jump and pole vault.

“We are optimistic that the trials will create an opportunity for even more athletes to stand a chance to represent the country this September. We are grateful to Safaricom for believing in our athletes and supporting us consistently for the past 6 years. Their support has made it possible for us to have a set calendar each year giving deaf athletes proper training structures and the results are there for all to see,” said Bernard Banja, Secretary General of DAAK.

Currently, Kenya holds Deaflympic titles in the 1,500m and 3,000m races.

Safaricom has sponsored the trials under the 2019 edition of Safaricom Athletics Series, which will support 12 different events in this year’s athletics calendar.