Alexandra Ndolo, the German-born Kenyan fencer has blamed the Kenya Fencing Federation for failing to support her in the quest to represent the country at the Paris Olympic Games next year.
Ndolo ranked among the top 10 in the world, said she has received empty promises for the last nine months.
Ndolo lamented on Instagram how she has been neglected, even forced to finance her season without the federation's support. This, she said, has left her bankrupt.
“So far, I have organised and financed all of my fencing seasons. I have planned, booked, and paid for every single training camp and competition. I have traveled to many competitions without my coach and my physio, which is unheard of for a fencer,” Ndolo posted.
Last year, Ndolo born of a Kenyan father and a German mother, chose to represent Kenya in fencing after representing Germany for 15 years.
She said the federation's support must come in handy for the growth and development of the sport in the country.
“I can’t afford to promote fencing in Kenya on my own. We have to ensure visibility for the young Kenyan athletes and coaches and at the same time, provide results for the officials," Ndolo said.
"This will only be possible if we get support from the federation," she added.
Ndolo has urged the sports system to support her achieve the Olympic dream of becoming first woman to represent Kenya in fencing.
“To the Kenyan sports system, If you truly want to embrace me, not just with words, if you truly want to be on this road to Paris together, put some actions behind your words,” she said.
To qualify for Paris, Ndolo needs to take part in the year-long 10 qualifying events that started last month. She also needs to accrue many points to rank top continentally in order to get a direct ticket to the Paris showpiece.
The 36-year old has already represented Kenya in three competitions including at a World Cup Epee in Tallin, Estonia. She has also taken part in a World Cup event in Canada and Qatar in Kenyan colours.
