Sixteen athletes—eight men and eight women—have been named in the final Team Kenya squad for the upcoming World Taekwondo U21 Championship, scheduled for December 3–6 at Moi Stadium, Kasarani. This year’s theme is “Taekwondo Values for Climate Action.
” The final squad was selected from a pool of 80 participants during trials held over the weekend at Blue Phoenix Martial Sports Gym. Among those named is Williams Odhiambo of ICY Club, who finally secured a spot on the national team after three consecutive attempts.
“I’ve been competing consistently for three years since I joined in 2022. I have taken part in several tournaments without success, so I’m happy I finally made the team,” said Odhiambo, who also secured bronze at last year’s trials but missed out on selection.
He previously competed in the Chairman’s Cup in Uganda. Odhiambo has been named team captain. Also earning spots in the squad are Lions’ Gate Taekwondo Club athletes David Mbuguwe and Elvis Omondi. Other male athletes selected include: George Williams (Regional Club), Lesley Aure (MMUST Eldo City), Clay Mukoko (Kawangware), Festo Mbalala and Frank Thomas (both from USIU).
On the women’s side, ICY Club’s Sophy Clay and Stacy Dock stood out, with Dock named captain of the women’s team. Additional female athletes selected are: Cecilia Wangui (Murang’a), Selina Zenna (USIU), Bridget Lucy (MKU), Wendy Trina (Swift Kicks) and Waida Mullah (Kibabii Bungoma).
Speaking during the trials, Kenya Taekwondo Federation (KTF) President Suleiman Sumba urged corporate sponsors to support the sport. “I call upon sponsors and well-wishers to come on board and partner with us to stabilise sports in Kenya,” said Sumba.
He revealed that Team Kenya is scheduled to train in Côte d’Ivoire for three weekends starting November 4, but noted that some documentation is still pending. “The team is expected to return on November 30 ahead of the World Championship at Kasarani,” he said.
Sumba expressed confidence in the squad, calling it a blend of youth and experience. “We expect good results. A win at this global stage would give the team a strong foundation for the future.”
