Athletics Kenya expands youth camps to prepare for LA 2028

Athletics Kenya has launched a major youth development initiative to prepare for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The federation plans to expand and strengthen school holiday training camps across the country to identify and nurture emerging talent.

Barnaba Korir, the Chairman of the Athletics Kenya Youth Development Committee and First Deputy President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, called for increased support for these camps. The program aims to provide young athletes with professional coaching, skill development, and competitive experience. This strategy is designed to create a talent pipeline that moves athletes from junior levels to senior international competitions.

Korir noted that the recent performance at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon, validates the federation's grassroots focus. Kenya finished second on the overall medal table at the championships, trailing only the United States. Kenya was the highest-ranking African nation, securing 11 medals in total.

The Kenyan medal haul included four gold, three silver, and four bronze medals. In comparison, the United States finished at the top of the standings with 21 medals, consisting of 12 gold, seven silver, and two bronze. Several athletes identified during the Oregon championships are expected to compete in the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, which runs from October 31 to November 13.

Korir stated that seeing young athletes compete in the United States provides evidence that the federation's work in nurturing talent is yielding results. He indicated that the performances in Oregon suggest a bright future for the sport. Sustained investment in these youth programmes remains a priority to ensure Kenya continues to produce athletes capable of competing at the highest global levels.