Kenya’s ‘Hit Squad’ need Sh7m to tackle Africa Cup
Boxing Association of Kenya president John Kameta (centre) with Leonard Mwambingu (left), Simon Kinuthia (second left), Saidi Bagwani (second right) and Mike Davies Mucine. BAK needs Sh7 million to send a full national team of 12 boxers to the Africa Cup tournament in East London, South Africa from June 14 to 25. PHOTO/FILE
What you need to know:
- BAK boss John Kameta said sending a full to the tournament will enhance their medal prospects.
- Out of the amount, Sh3 million will be used on air tickets, Sh2m for accommodation, Sh1.5 for allowances and the rest for other expenses including participation fees and visass.
- Kameta appealed to corporate organisations and well-wishers to help raise the money.
The Boxing Association of Kenya (BAK) needs Sh7 million to send a full national team of 12 boxers to the Africa Cup tournament in East London, South Africa from June 14 to 25.
BAK boss John Kameta said sending a full to the tournament will enhance their medal prospects.
Kameta who spoke in Mombasa yesterday said they received an invitation from their South African counterparts and have informed the Ministry of Sports and the National Olympic Committee of Kenya.
“We sent only three boxers to the African Youth Games in Gaberone, Botswana where we secured a bronze medal,” Kameta said.
“It is very likely that we would have scooped more medals if we had sent many boxers to the championships,” added Kameta who was flanked by bronze medallist Said Baguwan.
TIMING IS RIGHT
Kameta appealed to corporate organisations and well-wishers to help raise the money.
“This will be the best opportunity for the team as it prepares for future assignments and especially the Commonwealth Games is Glasgow, Scotland in August,” he added.
Out of the amount, Sh3 million will be used on air tickets, Sh2m for accommodation, Sh1.5 for allowances and the rest for other expenses including participation fees and visass.
The team is training in Mathare, Nairobi.
The national team is currently in training at Mathare in Nairobi and that it is ready for the tournament. “I am sure we can do wonders if we take part in the South Africa event,” said Kameta who thanked the Sports Ministry and Nock for taking the sport seriously.
He expressed hope that the ministry and Nock know the importance of ‘Hit Squad’ to train hard in preparations for the 2016 Olympic Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
He said he was sure the team is to give the country many gold, silver and bronze medals in the world’s top games.
Kameta said his association is currently working on modalities to make sure boxing is developed in all parts of the country.
“We are currently in talks with leaders of primary and secondary schools associations about possibility of starting boxing and include it in their annual sporting events,” he added.
