By BEN OGBEMUDIA

Athletics Kenya is sending a 45-member team to represent the country at the upcoming CAA U-18/U-20 Championships in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, from July 16 to 20.

According to Joseph Ilovi, Secretary of the Athletics Kenya Youth Committee, the squad, made up of 18 athletes in the U-18 category and 27 in U-20, was selected following a two-day national trial that ended on Saturday.

Ilovi said the athletes will go into camp from June 30 to July 13 before their departure to Nigeria on July 14. While U-20 athletes were selected based on qualifying standards set by the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), the U-18 team had a more flexible entry.

Originally scheduled for Oran, Algeria, the championship was moved to Nigeria due to unspecified logistical reasons. Over 700 athletes from nearly 50 countries are expected to compete.

Athletics Kenya’s Youth Development Director, Barnaba Korir, praised the depth of talent displayed at the trials held at Afraha Stadium. “The level of competition, discipline, and determination displayed reaffirms that Kenya’s future in athletics is in safe hands,” he said.

He added that Athletics Kenya is committed to building a future rooted in discipline, integrity, education, and clean sport, and highlighted ongoing efforts such as athlete biodata registration, anti-doping education, and a firm stance against age-cheating.