Prisons eye Sh63m prize money at World Club Championships

By Oscar Pilipili

African representatives Kenya Prisons aim to claim substantial share of the US$ 750,000 (Sh63m) prize money when they start FIVB World Women’s Club Championships campaign at Aspire Dome in Doha, Qatar.

Organisers of the event, which will run from October 13-19, have set aside US$ 250,000 (Sh21m) for ultimate winners of the tournament featuring six continental champions.

First runners-up pocket US$170,000(Sh14.2m), second runners-up US$120,00 (Sh10.08m) while fourth-placed team earn US$90,000 (Sh7.5m).

The last two teams (number five and six) will each get US$30,000 (Sh2.5m).

The Kenyans play Lancheras Catana of Puerto Rico in the opening match of the Championships at Aspire Dome on October 13 that they must win to harbour any hopes of making it to second round and get a reasonable share of the prize money at stake.

The Kenyans play Fernerbahce of Turkey in their final Pool ‘B’ match on October 13.

Meanwhile, Prisons spared time off their tight training schedule to visit St Paul’s Children Home in Ongata Rongai and donate assorted goodies to 54 kids residing here.

Prisons coach David Lung’aho said: “The players felt that they are blessed by qualifying for third time to play in World Club Championships and that it was only fair to celebrate the achievement with less fortunate members of the society.”

Director of the Home Margaret Mbote praised Prisons’ players for being passionate about the welfare of the orphaned children.

“I appreciate the support extended to us by Prisons and will pray to Almighty God to reward you with victories in Qatar,” said Mbote.

 “I appeal to other organisations to show care to such children by visiting their homes and let them to understand there is bright future,” she added.

The team resumes training at Moi International Sports Center on Monday after a one-day break.

Lung’aho said they have one training session on On Tuesday before the team breaks again on Wednesday to finalise their travel arrangements.

Prisons leave the country on Thursday at 1pm aboard a Qatari Flight.

Lung’aho said there are plans for Prisons to play Nairobi Water in a build-up match at Moi International Sports Center on On Tuesday.

He said all the players are in great shape and ready to compete against the best.