Korir hails team Kenya heroics at African School Games in Algiers

Athletics Kenya Youth and Development Director Barnaba Korir has hailed Kenya’s impressive showing at the inaugural African School Games in Algiers, Algeria, where the country bagged 11 medals

Speaking in Nairobi while receiving the final batch of Team Kenya on Thursday, Korir noted that most of the youngsters were travelling out of the country for the first time yet they delivered beyond expectations.

“Watoto wetu walifanya vizuri sana (our children did a good job). We are really very proud of them. Eleven medals and a fifth-place finish is a big fete,” said Korir.

Korir, who also serves as the First Deputy President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K), reiterated the committee’s commitment to investing in youth talent and strengthening grassroots systems.

“As NOC-K, we are proud of their performance and reaffirm our commitment to nurturing sporting excellence across all disciplines. We will continue to collaborate with federations to ensure Kenya remains a powerhouse — both continentally and globally,” Korir posted on his official X handle.

Among the standout performers in Algiers was Claire Chep’ngetich of Tiloa mixed Secondary School, who stormed to gold in the girls’ 2000m steeplechase adding to the African U18/U20 title she claimed just two weeks ago in Nigeria.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Claire credited her rapid rise to early inspiration and training under Coach Michael Siele.

“I thank God for what I have achieved today. I was inspired to run while in Class 8, after watching Coach Siele training. I owe a lot to his mentorship,” she said.

Claire, who trains at the Tiloa Camp in Kuresoi, is determined to follow in the footsteps of top talents like The 2021 World Under 20 1500m champion Purity Chepkirui, Mercy Chepkemoi (5,000m) and Judy Kemunto (800m).

“It’s a big motivation to train with Chepkirui, Judy, and Chepkemoi. I want to excel in steeplechase just like Faith Cherotich — she inspires me a lot.”

She was received at JKIA by Kuresoi South MP Joseph Tonui, her coach Siele, and her proud parents Charles and Daisy Ng'etich, who described Claire as a disciplined and determined athlete who has become a shining light for Chemaner village.

MP Tonui urged residents to seize scholarship opportunities through government reward programs, saying “Talent and education pays we must support both.”