The National Wrestling Team is intensifying its preparations for the Africa Beach Wrestling Championship, set to take place in Casablanca, Morocco, from April 27 to May 6, 2025.
With the Africa Beach Wrestling Championship just weeks away, the national team is focused on honing their skills and preparing to represent Kenya on the continental stage.
Speaking at the Mombasa Beach Wrestling Tournament on Sunday, National Team Head Coach James Oriri explained that the competition serves as a crucial platform to scout and select wrestlers for the prestigious continental event.
“This tournament is vital as we identify potential talent for the national team,” said Oriri.
The selected players will begin their training camp at Kasarani Stadium on April 20 ahead of the championship.
Oriri emphasized the accessibility and safety of beach wrestling, stating, “Wrestling, especially beach wrestling, is a very safe sport that doesn’t require extensive equipment. With basic knowledge of the rules, anyone can start, and it also accommodates various weight categories.”
He further differentiated beach wrestling from the more theatrical WWF, urging the public not to confuse the two. “Beach wrestling is a serious, competitive sport with its own set of rules, unlike the entertainment-focused WWF,” he expounded.
Coach Oriri also called for increased funding to support the promotion of wrestling in schools, acknowledging that a lack of resources has hindered many talented athletes from competing at international events.
Wrestling Champion Evan Wafula, who competes in the 80kg category for beach wrestling and 86kg for freestyle, shared his hopes for the upcoming championship.
“We’ve had two club-level championships, and I’ve emerged the best in both. My expectations are high for the Morocco tournament, and my goal is to win and continue progressing in future competitions,” Wafula said.
Naivasha Wrestling Team Coach Peter Omenda said their focus is on the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.
“Our team is well-prepared, and we’re also grateful for the training programmes and efforts to promote wrestling in schools,” he stated. “We aim to introduce wrestling to young athletes early, so they can develop the skills needed.”
The Mombasa Beach Tournament saw thrilling competition in various weight categories. In the senior men’s under 70kg category, Levy Simiyu of PSTC took first place with 3 points, followed by Kenneth Koech of Naivasha with 2 points and Brian Ogutu of PSTC with 1 point.
In the under 80kg category, Brian Oloo of Naivasha claimed the top spot with 3 points, while Manasseh Ngila of PSTC earned 2 points, and Rodgers Onyambu of Naivasha finished third with 1 point.
In the over 90kg category, Dan Aura of PSTC secured first place with 3 points, followed by Wangoye Alphonse of Naivasha with 2 points.
The junior wrestlers also showcased their talent, with Noor Ratande of Naivasha winning the under 70kg category with 3 points and Nelson Marua of Kuria finishing second with 2 points.
By Sadik Hassan
