The Murang’a County Taekwondo Association on Sunday conducted a selection of the best martial arts players to compete in a tournament to be held in Mombasa.
In every category three players who emerged from position one to three were picked with the association expressing confidence it will emerge tops in the chairman’s cup tournament.
The Chairman of the Association, Ndung’u Ng’ang’a said that last year, the county emerged position three in the cup due to inadequate preparations.
“This year we have held a selection exercise from all sub county teams and we will present the best players with the aim of winning the chairman’s cup,” said Nga’ng’a.
In Finweight category, Benjamin Martin, Paul Muiruri and Francis Mwai were picked while in the Flyweight category, Franklin Makoha, Antony Njuguna and Christopher Katumbe will represent the county.
Others selected include Herman Mwangi, Peter Kiratu and Joshua Mwangi who are in Bantam weight category, while Ken Juma, Jackson Kahiga and Mwangi Kabira will represent Featherweight category. Only Peter Njoroge was picked to represent Heavyweight category.
Meanwhile, the officials of the association have appealed for assistance from the county government and sponsors to ensure the players get the required facilitation.
The Secretary General of the association, Geoffrey Waweru said the martial arts coaches are normally forced to use their finances to support players.
He lamented that, the county lacks halls for players to use for practice and added they usually rent halls from hotels and churches.
“We have written a proposal for funding from the county government and we are waiting for a response as we prepare to take the teams to Mombasa. What is needed most is equipment, funds and the space to do our practice,” added Waweru.
He further said: “Much attention in the county is given to outdoor sports and we hope indoor sports will soon be granted needed attention.”
The Treasurer of the association, Saida Wambui underscored the importance of Taekwondo, saying it has helped to instill good behavior among young people.
Wambui encouraged girls to enroll with taekwondo sports noting that in the past, some parents have discouraged their daughters from joining the sport.
“We are waiting for approval from Ministry of Education so as to establish Taekwondo clubs in public primary and secondary schools,” added Wambui.
The Chairman’s Cup will be held in Mombasa on April 12 and 13 where all the 47 counties will be represented.
By Bernard Munyao
