Widen support for sports

Kenya’s performance on the international stage this season has remained satisfactory, especially with the coronation of seven track stars for lifting the four-carat Diamond League trophy.

This performance must be sustained as the country prepares for the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, in October.

There is also the need help young sportsmen who have shown exemplary performance at the East Africa school games, to get the required exposure.

While the prospects of getting medals in track and field are almost guaranteed, more is required, especially in preparing for other disciplines.

The country needs to diversify its scope to field events and other sports like rugby, boxing, swimming, tennis and cycling.

The government must review its involvement in supporting these teams.

Waiting for federations to struggle on shoe-string budgets to send players to international tournaments is unfair and must end.

More technical support staff, some from abroad, need to be brought on board to help prepare the teams.

Incentives must also be given to the competitors who represent the country. This will inspire many to give their best performances.