Nakuru is set to host the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U18/U20 National Trials from June 19 to 21, 2025, at Afraha Stadium, stepping in as the venue after the Ulinzi Sports Complex became unavailable.
The meeting will determine Kenya’s team for the 3rd African U18/U20 CAA Championships, scheduled for July 14 to 20, 2025, in Abeokuta City, Nigeria. The biennial junior athletics championship is expected to draw more than 500 young competitors from across the continent.
Athletics Kenya Chief Administrative Officer Susan Kamau confirmed that bib collection and athlete vetting will take place on June 19 at Afraha Stadium from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Eligible participants will receive a KSh. 3,000 transport reimbursement but must arrange their own accommodation.
The South Rift region, encompassing Nakuru, Kericho, and Bomet, is renowned for producing rising track and field talent, particularly in middle- and long-distance events. Its high-altitude training grounds, often exceeding 1,500 meters above sea level, and a vibrant athletic culture that views sports as a pathway to success have fostered exceptional athletes.
Notable stars from the region include Beatrice Chepkoech, the reigning 3000m steeplechase world champion from Kericho; Mercy Cherono, who broke the 3000m World Youth record in 2007; Ferguson Rotich, an 800m Olympic silver medalist; and Robert Biwott, the 1500m steeplechase gold medalist at the 2013 World Under-18 Championships. Emerging talents like Victor Kipkirui (Nakuru) and Ernest Kiprotich (Bomet), both 1500m runners, further highlight the region’s depth.
As a global athletics powerhouse, Kenya is expected to field a formidable junior team. These trials will serve as a critical platform for young athletes to uphold the South Rift’s legacy of excellence and shine on the continental stage.