Team Kenya rafters train in Sagana ahead of the World Cup Series./HANDOUT
Kenya has named a 56-member national team for the Rafting World Cup Series, scheduled for July 6–12 at Rapids Camp in Sagana.
The squad was selected through a rigorous trial process that attracted more than 150 athletes.
With this international event expected to feature competitors from 32 countries and 19 teams, the Kenya Rafting Federation is banking on a mix of youth and home advantage to challenge global powerhouses, including defending champions Portugal and former world champions Japan.
The selection process highlighted the growing depth of talent in the country, particularly among younger competitors.
Kenya Rafting Federation president June Muthoni explained that focusing on these young athletes is a deliberate strategy to secure the long-term growth of the sport.
“The trials have showed us that we have a lot of talent, especially among the youth who are actively involved and are under 23 years. That is the largest category of our athletes,” Muthoni said.
“This is deliberate because we feel that the future of our sport and federation is the youth. Being a young president motivates young athletes, who will help grow the federation.”
Kenya enters the competition buoyed by significant progress made since competing at the World Championships in Argentina eight months ago.
Muthoni credited this steady development to consistent training under the guidance of Italian coach Zeno Martini.
“Where we are now and where we were in Argentina eight months ago is a huge difference. Thanks to our coach from Italy and we shall continue working with the coach before the start of the championships. The consistency has really helped,” she said.
The championship presents a rare opportunity to compete against elite international opposition on familiar waters. Beyond the competition itself, organizers hope the event will boost local sports tourism and inspire more young people across the country to take up rafting.
Hosting the World Cup Series is another milestone for Sagana, which has established itself as one of Africa's premier rafting destinations due to its challenging white-water rapids and world-class facilities.
