Destination Dubai for 7s side

• Team departs on Sunday in high spirits after receiving flag from President Kibaki, and Sh1.7m

The national seven-a-side rugby team departs on Sunday for the fifth Rugby World Cup Sevens tournament in Dubai in high spirits after receiving the national flag from President Mwai Kibaki on Saturday at State House Nairobi.

For the first time a national rugby team was presented with a flag by the country’s President. The Minister for Youth and Sport Hellen Sambili also kept her promise by giving the team Sh300,000 for qualifying for the RWC Sevens and another Sh1.436 million towards the team’s expenses.

Before officially handing over the flag to the team’s captain Humphrey Kayange, President Kibaki appreciated Kenya’s meteoric rise in the shorter version of the game.

“I have noted with great appreciation your have not only qualified for the Rugby World Cup Sevens for the third time but have also done well in the International Rugby Board Sevens World Series,” the President stated.

Great hope

Kenya’s recent triumph over New Zealand and South Africa left no doubt in the President’s mind about Kenya’s capability in the RWC Sevens and the remaining IRB Sevens World Series.

“We have great hope and are excited at your exploits.”

The President also urged other sponsors to emulate Virgin Atlantic Airways and Telkom Kenya who are the key sponsors for the team.

“I would urge other sponsors to come forward and support the team.”

Earlier, Richard Omwela, the Kenya Rugby Football Union, praised the Sevens team calling them ‘worthy’ ambassadors of the country.

“There is no country we have not beaten with the limited resources at hand. We are proud of the team and are happy that the Government through the Ministry of Sports has been working tirelessly to ensure that the team is appreciated like all others who bring glory to the country,” Omwela said.

Omwela had a long wish list for the President. “We have had many problems and need support. Kenya will be hosting the Junior World Rugby Trophy in April and we request logistical support.”

The squad:

Humphrey Kayange (Captain), Lavin Asego, Victor Oduor, Collins Injera, Horace Otieno, Allan Onyango, Sidney Ashioya, Wilson Kopondo, Gibson Weru, Biko Adema, Benedict Nyambu and Innocent Simiyu. Officials: Benjamin Ayimba (coach), Felix Ochieng (assistant coach), Oscar Osir (team manager), George Odhiambo (physiotherapist), Geoffrey Kimani (sprint coach), Wanjiku Wairia (nutritionist).