READY TO CONQUER AFRICA: Aprot, Koech make Team Kenya for continental athletics event

Alice Aprot on her way to win women's 10000m finals during the AK National Championship Championship at Kasarani Stadium on May 26, 2016.[PHOTO:DENNIS OKEYO/STANDARD]

All Africa Games champion Alice Aprot and 400m hurdler Harun Koech (pictured) lead Team Kenya to the 20th edition of Africa Senior Athletics Championship from June 22 to 26 in Durban, South Africa.

After the three-day dress rehearsal showdown at Kasarani Stadium, Athletics Kenya named 59 athletes for the African showpiece.

The team will be headed by national Kenya Police Athletics chairman Joseph Kiket (team manager), while David Kitur is the team head coach.

Most top runners are competing in Diamond League legs, which gave room for the relatively new faces to be picked.

"We decided not to name athletes who did not compete here in order give other runners exposure at the continental level," said Paul Mutwii, Athletics Kenya senior vice President.

"We are sure the selected athletes will be our reliable ambassadors in the South Africa championships. Let us give them the deserved assistance."

Mike Mokamba and Mark Otieno will be carrying the national flag in men's 100m. Eunice Kadogo was the only sprinter selected in women's 100m.

World Junior champion Margaret Nyairera, who produced some of the highlights of the championships, will line up in 400m, while Timothy Cheruiyot headlines men's 1500m that also has Vincent Letting and Eric Kiptanui.

Sela Jepleting and Judy Kiyeng will team up in women's 1500m alongside world junior silver medalist Sandra Felis Chebet, in her first race as a senior.

Red-hot Aprot will be seeking podium finish with Jackline Chepngeno and Joyline Jepkosgei in 10,000m.

In the corresponding men's race, newly-crowned national champion Kenneth Kipkemoi, Wilfred Kimitei and Stephen Arita will carry the flag.