Omurwa to lead Kenya's team at Africa Junior championships

Isaac Omurwa on his way to winning the U20 100m finals during the national U18 and U20 trials at Nyayo Stadium on April 8 2023. [Courtesy]

Athletics Kenya has picked a strong squad that includes the East Africa 100m junior champion Isaac Omurwa and World Under 20 400m silver medallist Damaris Nduleve for the Africa Under 18/20 championships scheduled for April 29-May 3 in Lusaka, Zambia.

Omurwa, following in the footsteps of his elder brother Ferdinand Omanyala, topped the men's 100m U20 finals at Nyayo Stadium on Saturday to ensure he gets a chance to lead a contingent of 50 athletes at the upcoming continental showpiece.

"I'm determined to win a bigger competition, victory in Tanzania was the beginning. I will be happy to win a continental title. But I know the competition will be tough considering that Nigeria and South Africa will be represented," said Omurwa who will be the lone Kenyan representative in the event.

Nduleve, fresh from specialised training in Miramas, France will double in women's 400m and 200m.

Iten-based Diana Cherotich and Maureen Chepkoech will represent the country over the 5000m.

In the 800m, Everlyne Chepkoech and Judy Kemunto will carry the country's flag while

Sheila Chebet and Peninah Mutisya have been selected for the 1500m.

Pamela Kosgei, the younger sister to the women's world marathon record holder Brigid Kosgei, will be favourite in the 3000m steeplechase.