Team Kenya is poised for a crucial day at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris, France, with two gold medals within their grasp. Following a challenging start to the tournament, the Kenyan athletes are determined to make their mark and bring home the much-coveted medals.
Friday’s events were a mix of highs and lows for the team. Captain Samuel Mushai faced disappointment after being disqualified in the men’s 5000m T11 finals due to a lane infringement, a setback that has only fueled the team’s resolve to perform better.
In Para Taekwondo, Julieta Lenuge Moipo’s journey ended in the round of 16 in the K44-58kg category, adding to the team’s early challenges.
Kenya’s hopes were further tested in rowing, where Asiya Sururu narrowly missed an automatic qualification in the PR1 Women’s Single Sculls, finishing sixth in her heat.
However, Sururu’s determination remains unwavering as she prepares to compete in today’s repechage, with a chance to secure a spot in the finals.
She will face stiff competition from Brazil’s Claudia Cicero Dos Santos, who is favored to win the heat. Also in contention are France’s Nathalie Benoit, Claire Ghiringhelli of Switzerland, and Uzbekistan’s Mukhayo Abdussattorova. The top two athletes will advance to Final A, while the others will proceed to Final B.
At 11:00 AM, all eyes will be on Sheila Wanyonyi as she takes to the field in the Women’s Javelin Throw F13 finals. Wanyonyi, who has posted a season-best of 30.69 meters, is aiming for gold against a strong lineup of 11 competitors.
Among her fiercest rivals is China’s Zhao Yuping, whose personal best of 46 meters, with a season-best of 44.86 meters, makes her a formidable opponent.
In the Men’s 5000m T13 finals, Joseph Lokedi will carry Kenya’s hopes as he battles for the gold. Lokedi, who recorded a season-best of 14:57.72, faces stiff competition from some of the world’s best, including Tunisia’s Aloui Bilel, who set the Paralympic record of 14:33.33 at the 2016 Rio Games.
As the anticipation builds, the question remains: will Team Kenya secure their first gold at the Paris Paralympics? With their resilience and determination, Saturday could be a defining moment for the team.
