Bomet County is set to host this year’s Rift-Valley secondary schools’ regional term two games, marking the first time in 20 years that the county will stage the prestigious event.
Scheduled to take place from July 16 to 20, the games are expected to attract participants and spectators from across the region.
Neighbouring Kisii County will host the Kenya National Secondary School Association games later in July to August, further solidifying the region’s role in fostering youth sports.
Preparations for the games are in full swing as officials from Bomet County Secondary Schools, security agencies, and various stakeholders have been meeting regularly to ensure a seamless and successful event.
The last time Bomet hosted these games was in 2004 at the Bomet Green Stadium, where a large turnout of local supporters witnessed memorable matches.
Fans were treated to thrilling displays of skill, with football powerhouses like St. Anthony Boys Secondary School, Manor House High School, and Laiser Hill Academy showcasing their talents.
In a memorable final, St. Anthony Boys came from behind to defeat Manor House 2-1 and clinch the title.
This year’s competition will feature intense competition across various disciplines, including football, volleyball, netball, rugby, basketball, and racquet games in both boys’ and girls’ categories.
Bomet emerged victorious in the bidding process against Narok County, underscoring its commitment to revitalising sports infrastructure and community engagement.
The opening ceremony is set to dazzle at St. Michael Secondary School, followed by matches held at Bomet IAAF Stadium, Bomet Green Stadium, and neighbouring schools.
Local businesses in Bomet town and surrounding trading centres are gearing up to host teams and officials, anticipating a boost in economic activity during the event.
Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok assured organisers of the county’s unwavering support during a recent meeting with sports officials, emphasising the importance of fostering youth talent and promoting sports tourism in the region.
Kimutai Kerich, Chairman of the Bomet Central Secondary School Sports Association, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the regional games, highlighting the excitement among residents.
“This is a rare chance for our community to witness top-tier sports right in their backyard,” Kerich noted.
He also urged local businesses to capitalise on the influx of visitors from the fourteen participating counties.
The Rift-Valley regional games are widely regarded as the country’s premier interschool competition, drawing participants from a vast area due to their scale and prestige.
By Lamech Willy.A
