Kenya Harlequins RFC are the overall winners of the 2nd edition of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit, which concluded with the Prinsloo 7s at the Nakuru Athletic Club on Sunday.
Quins sailed through after accumulating 110 points to lead the standings, followed by Kabras Sugar with 105 points, while former title holders KCB, came in third place with 94 points.
Quins walked away with the top prize of Sh300,000 in a well-fought battle that saw them claim a 35-7 victory in the decider against Nakuru RFC after they bundled out Nondies during the main cup quarterfinal, which was the first match of the day.
Showcasing their dominance and skill throughout the tournament, Kenya Harlequins team captain, Richel Wangila, attributed the win to outstanding resilience and determination throughout the competition, proving themselves a formidable opponent.
“This is a good reward for the boys, who, as we can tell from the win today, gave it their all, right from the first leg up to the winning stages at Prinsloo 7s. I am happy, and I give my gratitude to the technical bench for their support and belief in us throughout the competition. We have won the trophy, and the boys have received a token from the title sponsor, SportPesa, which is a big motivation,” an elated Wangila said.
On the other hand, Strathmore Leos won the Prinsloo 7s in a formidable show against Nondies, bagging a 33-7 victory and ultimately earning a well-deserved Sh100,000 prize, as the runners-up walked away with Sh50,000. Settling for third place, Kabras Sugar took home Sh25,000 after a 19-0 win against the Menengai Oilers in the 3rd place play-off.
In the women’s event, Impala Queens obliterated Mwamba Ladies 33-0 to win the ladies tournament, as Nakuru Ladies finished third.
Commenting on this year’s circuit, Kenya Rugby Union CEO Thomas Odundo acknowledged the impressive quality of play attributed to the strong team spirit among the participating teams.
“We have seen outstanding performances from young players like Brian Ratila, Elvis Olukusi, Samuel Asati, Lucky Dewald, Erick Cantona, and Kevin Wekesa. The SportPesa National 7s Circuit has once again proven to be a breeding ground for talent and a showcase of the country’s rugby prowess. Once more we are seeing a return of the love and fun atmosphere of Kenyan rugby,” said Odundo.
Speaking after the award ceremony, Willis Ojwang of SportPesa expressed satisfaction at the conduct, organisation, and high quality of the game at this year’s circuit.
This is the second consecutive year that SportPesa has supported the KRU National 7s circuit with Sh16.5 million worth of commitment.
“The talent and dedication displayed by all the teams have been nothing short of inspiring. This year’s competition has not only showcased the best of Kenyan Rugby but also highlighted the potential of our young athletes. We are incredibly proud to witness the culmination of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit and look forward to an even bigger and better tournament in 2025,” he said.
The successful conclusion of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit spotlights the importance of talent elevation and discovery in Kenya. As the dust settles on this year’s run-down of 7s rugby talent, eyes now shift to the SportPesa Legends Cup on Saturday, September 28 at the RFUEA Grounds ahead of the much-anticipated Safari 7s to be held on October 11–13.
Earlier this year, SportPesa renewed its partnership with Kenya’s rugby legends in a Sh2 million deal worth of sponsorship support towards their doubleheader against their counterparts from Uganda.
By Ian Chepkuto
