Kenya is sending top riders in late October for the FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations (MXOAN) in Marrakech, Morocco, for three days of intense action.
The Motorcycle Sports Federation of Kenya (MSFK) has announced a team of 15 motocross athletes for the Marrakech event.
In the MX1 Class, current national champion and leader Apollo Mbuki will lead the group.
He will be returning to the FIM Africa continental showpiece once again to represent his country.
Apollo is among the most decorated and accomplished riders on the team and will captain Team Kenya in the championship, which is open only to competitors from FIM member countries in Africa.
The team includes three lady riders, led by Atete Benzinge, who will be the country’s sole representative in the WMX (Women Motocross) category.
The other female members of the team are Chiara Hatanga and Jematia Kangogo, both entered in the MX50 Class.
An elated Atete, speaking after her selection, stated: “I am looking forward to representing Team Kenya in Morocco. Based on the recent training camp we had at Jamhuri Park racetrack, I learned new skills that I believe will come in handy in Marrakech. I think I have improved tremendously in my jumps and cornering, as that was where my weakness lay.”
The team has received a timely boost following confirmation of a sponsorship package from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports.
The sponsorship will cover the team’s expenses, including accommodation, airfare, bike transport, visa fees, FIM license fees, entry fees and athlete allowances.
Other team members include the MX50cc trio of Leto Tohani, Jeremy Hawi and Matt Kagondu, while the MX65cc class will feature Dylan Hatanga, Jedo Kagondu, Lemayian Mugo and Jayden Weru.
In the MX Lite Class, two riders, Ngengi Kamau and Chemain Kangogo, will also travel with the team.
Fredrick Yongo will compete solo in the MX Vets Class for older riders who still find satisfaction and enjoyment in racing.
This year’s edition will bring together 18 African countries.
Kenya last hosted the event at the Jamhuri track in August 2016.
