Kenya selects strong team for 24th Deaflympics to be held in Tokyo, Japan

Team Kenya aims for a stronger performance at the 25th Summer Deaflympics, scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan, from November 15 to 26.

The country has assembled a formidable squad of 63 athletes, aiming to surpass its 2022 outing in Caxias do Sul, Brazil.

At the 24th edition in Brazil, Kenya topped the African standings with a total of 24 medals: five gold, seven silver, and 12 bronze.

This year’s Games hold special significance as they mark the 100th anniversary of the Deaflympics—a milestone that Kenya hopes to celebrate with a record-breaking performance.

Among the standout athletes heading to Tokyo is Deaflympics silver medallist Serah Wangari, who booked her place in the team after a dominant run in the national trials held at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi. Wangari clocked 41:04.5 to win the women's 10,000m race.

Her victory secured a second Deaflympics appearance for the 36-year-old mother of two.

“I am grateful for this victory. I'm happy to qualify for my second Deaflympics championship after my exciting exploits in Brazil three years ago,” said Wangari, who hails from Nyandarua County.

She was followed by Deaflympics double bronze medallist Nancy Jebichii (42:48.8) and Juster Kwamesa (44:33.6).

Wangari, who finished second in the women’s 5,000m at the trials, is determined to return to Tokyo with bigger goals.

“I was fourth in the 5,000m in Brazil, but this time I'm aiming to reach the medal bracket. As for the 10,000m, my focus is to convert the silver won in Brazil into gold. I'm practising and praying hard that all goes well,” she said.

Without a personal coach, Wangari has been training solo in the rugged terrains of Nyandarua, sometimes relying on online resources and support from hearing friends.

“Sometimes I go online to get my tactics and techniques. I also train with my hearing friends who advise me on areas to improve. I mostly worked on speed and endurance before the trials. The training was intense, but I'm grateful I didn’t have any injuries. I'm praying that the smooth run continues all the way to Tokyo,” she said.

Wangari believes her debut experience at the Deaflympics in Brazil has given her the perspective needed to chase gold this time.

“I was blank when I travelled to Brazil, despite coming home with a silver medal. Now, as I head to Tokyo, I already know what to do. Hopefully, my plans turn into the coveted golden jackpot I so much yearn for in my life,” she said.