Squash: Ugandan Rukunya eyes KenGen title

Chiraq Shah wins Kengen Parklands Open Squash Tournament.PHOTO/DENNIS OKEYO

Defending champion and Uganda International Ian Rukunya defeated John Kahara 2-0 to qualify for the second round of the KenGen Nakuru Open International Squash Championships yesterday.

Rukunya, who toppled veteran defending champion Modecci Kabamba and stained the latter’s five-year victory stint, did not find it easy against Kahara, who also gave a good account of himself, despite the loss.

“I’m determined to retain the title. Although the field doesn’t look difficult for me, it will not be a walk in the park,” Rukunya said.

“I wish it were that easy,” added the 28-year-old Ugandan, who also took part in the Prince Grand Prix Championships in South Africa in 2014.

Rukunya, who represented Uganda in 2010 and 2014 Commonwealth Games in India and Glasgow (Scotland), said his main opponents include compatriot Paul Kadoma and Kenya’s James Dalidi. To him, the duo is the most polished of all players and their styles of play are admirable.

“I have respect for these two players because of their accomplishments in serious championships like this,” he told Standard Sports.

Rukunya was to face Jay Shah, who had dismissed Nickson Ndungire of KenGen, by the same margin.

KenGen has sponsored the tournament with Sh1.2 million. Out of this, Sh750,000 has been used to refurbish squash courts at the Rift Valley Sports Club.

Speaking after handing over the cheque to Rift Valley Sports Club officials led by Director DepeeJoley, KenGen chairman Joshua Choge promised to increase the sponsorship to Sh1.45m next year.

“This will ensure we attract some of the top talents in the region,” said Choge.

“That is what we want to achieve; a successful tournament.”

In the women’s category, Elizabeth Mulwa cruised to the quarterfinals after defeating Charity Kioko 3-0.

On her way to the last eight, Mulwa defeated Jane Njeri 2-0 in the opening match, while Kioko registered a 2-0 victory over Caroline Ireri in her opening match. Mulwa is keen on retaining her title.

“I am determined to do it once again. The secret to success is to attend regular fitness levels,” she said in postmatch interview. [Ben Ahenda]