NOC-K Secretary General Francis Mutuku flanked by Jully Musangi (right) and Faith Ogallo (left) during the send off ceremony at Nock headquarters in Nairobi.
Olympian Faith Ogallo and Jully Musangi, ranked 50 and 53 globally in Taekwondo, will engage in a three week training to increase their chances to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics Games, slated for 26th July -11th August, in Paris, France.
The duo are set to travel on 2nd September to the City of Miramas in France to sharpen their skills and participate in ranking tournaments across Europe, including Poland and possibly France.
Ogallo, a 67kgs Olympic weight category and Middle-weight Category, Musangi expressed their gratitude for the chance to train a year ahead of the Paris Olympics.
“This is an incredible opportunity to refine my skills and aim not just to participate, but to secure a place on the podium.” Said Ogallo.
Olympian Faith Ogallo during the send off ceremony at NOC-K headquarters in Nairobi
Speaking during the send-off in Nairobi, National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) Secretary General, Francis Mutuku, emphasized on the significance of various sports disciplines being supported to qualify for the Olympics.
“In collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, Miramas, and Nock, we are providing our athletes with opportunities to qualify and excel in elite competitions. This partnership stands as a testament to our commitment in enhancing athlete training and preparations.” Said Mutuku.
The duo have been facilitated following a Memorandum of Understanding inked last year between the NOC-K and the City of Miramas, France.
They will be guided by experienced coaches from France who will accompany them during competitions across Europe, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of performance, fitness, and skills.
Ogallo and Musangi will be the second batch of athletes being hosted after the first batch which was Athletics, settled in quite well, they consisted of sprinters led by 100m Commonwealth Champion Ferdinand Omanyala and junior athletes just before the World U-20 in Cali.
The Ministry of Sports will be providing comprehensive support for training, and Miramas will be offering technical assistance and accommodation. NOC-K, will also be announcing two more teams to join the Taekwondo athletes this September in Miramas.
