Kenya seed two Waitathu vows to defend title as Nyanza Open kicks off on a high

Theertha Vanemredy in action during Nyanza Open in Kisumu.[Washington Onyango, Standard]

Defending champion and Kenya seed two Edwin Waitathu also launched his title defense on a winning note after seeing off Eric Andabwa 2-0 as the 2021 Nyanza Mega Badminton Open Championships kicked off on a high note in Kisumu on Saturday.

The Kenyatta University player who edged out Edwin Akwaye in the finals to win the 2019 edition said he is looking forward to lock horns with his friend and doubles teammate Wanyoike.

“It is always great to play in Kisumu which attracts many international players. Of cause my target I to defend my title and it is going to be an entertaining knock out round,” said the Kenyan international.

Jacinta Sengera of Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA) and Kenya seed one John Wanyoike also won  all their opening matches played at Agha Khan Hall in Kisumu.

Sengera edged out Durali Wasani of University of Nairobi 2-0 in her second round match after she got a bye in the first match while Wanyoike edged out Bevan Binale 2-0.

Speaking after her win, Sengera who started playing badminton in 2016 said she is looking forward to win the tourney.

“It was a busy day for players as the tourney attracted a good number of players which is good for the growth of the sport.”

“My goal is to fight for the title and am looking forward to qualify for the knock out stages. It won’t be easy but I am ready to show my strengths against the best,” said the tournament’s female seed two.

Other results saw Theertha Vanemredy edge Gillian Nakhungu 2-0 as Ugandan top seed Brenda Awuori defeat Nelly Kambua 2-0.