Neo Olengo will spearhead Kenya's nine-man team to the World Junior Swimming Championships slated for August 19-24 in Otapeni, Romania.
The Pretoria-based swimmer will lead the boys' charge in the six-day competition alongside Ameir Muravej, Igbaal Bayusuf, Johari Masinde, Victor Okech and Nathan Matimu.
Macrine Kalombo will lead the girls' onslaught alongside Nina Irangi, Audrey Langat, and Italy-based Duini Caffini.
Speaking on Thursday, head coach Olum Otieno said that this being their debut in the global junior show, a place in the finals would be respectable for the 10-man squad.
The team has been training for the past two months. "We are up against some of the top swimming nations in the world, and it will be an honour to participate and make an impression by qualifying for the finals of their respective event," added Olum.
Kalombo has been entered for a record six events, including the 50m and 100 freestyle; 50 and 100m butterfly, 200m breaststroke and 200m individual medley.
The team, which departs today, will have four days to acclimatise to the hot summer temperatures expected in Romania.
“ We want the swimmers to arrive and get used to the weather and culture in Romania, as we put the final touches on the championship."
Kenya Aquatics technical director, Omar Omari, said the federation is keen to allow young swimmers to grace the global show.
This, he said, will provide a pathway for them to further their swimming careers by also representing the country in World Championships or the Olympics in future.
He added that the team selected was chosen on merit, owing to their qualifications and points accrued from various championships over the last few months.
"A majority of these swimmers swam at the African Junior Championships in Egypt in April this year, and their experience will be vital as they head to the global event,” observed Omari.
