Kenya national Deaflympics hoping to surpass Taipei record in Sofia

Safaricom also plans to reward medal winners in Bulgaria,” said Safaricom Marketing Director Rita Okuthe during the sponsorship cheque presentation.

Okuthe added: “This sponsorship is part of the journey that we embarked on with the Deaf Athletics Association of Kenya (DAAK) last month when we sponsored the trials used to identify the team to represent the country in Bulgaria.”

DAAK official are optimistic of  bringing glory to the country in Sofia.

“The pride that comes with hearing our National Anthem play on an International stage is a conviction for working hard towards the medals,” said DAAK chairman Johns Kirui, who thanked Safaricom for the sponsorship.

DAAK Public Relations Officer and the teams’ Head of Delegation Tom Okiki on his part said: “We thank Safaricom for the support for the teams. The company has indeed been a loyal partner and we remain grateful. I would like to call for other sponsors to come on board   and help us in our journey to Sofia.”

The Deaflypic Games, which takes place every four years, is contested by deaf athletes in different disciplines including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball and swimming.

THE SQUAD

Women:

Beryl Atieno                100m, 200m

Linet Nanjala                100m, 200m, 400m

Penina Njeri                 100m, 200m

Faith Mukami              200m, 400m 

Rebecca Matiko           1500m, 800m

Janet Wairimu              800m, 400m

Sera Wangari                10,000m, 5000m

Juster Kwamboka                  10,000m, 5000m 

Anne Nasimiyu            10,000m, 5000m

Men:

Baxtone Menjo  3000m sc,1500m,800m,4x400m

David Wamira              100m, 200m,4x100m

Slyvanus Ayiecho                 100m,200m,4x100m             

Evanson Ngure            100m,200m,4x100m             

Benson Otieno             200m,400m,4x400m

David Ogogo                400m,4x400m

Ancient Kioli               100m,200m,400m

Justus Kipkemboi                 1500m,800m

Geoffrey Kamia           1500m

Simon Kibai                 10,000m,5000m,1500m

Michael letting             10,000m

Daniel Kiptum             Marathon,10,000m,5000m

David Njeru                 Marathon,10,000m

Peter Toroitich             Marathon,3000m sc

Lucas Wanjiru              3000m sc

David Kipkoge            10,000m

Officials

1. Benard Mulama Ochieng-coach

2. Caroline Anyango-Coach

3. Ezekiel Kipkemboi-assistant Team Manager

4. Rachel Mugambi-Physiotherapist

5. Joseph Muriuki Kimathi- Language Interpreter