Kenya tops World Peace Cup in Thailand

By ERICK OCHIENG’

Kenya has won 26 medals including eight gold, ten silver and eight bronze to emerge the world champion in Tong-Il Moo-Do at the seventh World Martial Arts Peace Cup concluded in Thailand.

Players who bagged gold for the country, which was the only African representative at the championships,   were Nasib Abdisalam, Ian Munjui, Collins Ndunda, Elvis Malipe, Dickson Nyaga, Gilbert Mayar, Robinson Muronji and Lillian Ambeyi.

Deputy Sports Commissioner Stephen Karinga, who received the team on arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Thursday, said the win was a clear indication that the country is gradually diversifying its sports away from the dominance of athletics.

“This is  a new dawn. If we can beat the giants then  we can make  it in other fringe sports at the Olympics if we are determined,” said Karinga.

Team coach Clarence Mwakio said he was pleased with their sterling performance during which they conquered 11 other top nations, including powerhouse Brazil and the hosts.

Besides Kenya, the tournament also attracted Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Philipines, Brazil, Laos, USA, Nepal and Cambodia.