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The National Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) yesterday demonstrated its unwavering commitment to Kenya’s sporting excellence by extending a Sh3 million grant to the National Women’s Hockey team, Blades.

The support from the Olympic Solidarity Fund is designed to fortify the Blades’ preparations for the Continental Olympic Qualifier, a pivotal step on their journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics.

With only 346 days remaining until the grand event, the Blades are gearing up for the Continental Olympic Qualifier, scheduled to take place from October 29 to November 5 in Johannesburg, South Africa, under the banner of the African Hockey Road to Paris initiative.

The grant handover ceremony, attended by NOC-K Secretary General Francis Mutuku, NOC-K Executive Member Paul Otula, and Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) officials led by President Nahashon Randiek marks a significant milestone in the team’s pursuit of Olympic qualification.

According to Mutuku, the grant not only underlines NOC-K’s dedication to empowering Kenya’s athletes but also highlights the strategic collaboration with federations.

Elsewhere, Narok Water and Sanitation Company thrashed Ruiru-Juja Water Company 7-1 in a one sided match during the ongoing Water Companies Sports Organisation games at William ole Ntimama stadium in day two of the National games.

The host team have now qualified for quarter finals and were set to face Kiambu Water Company for the quarter final slot later yesterday afternoon.

Ruiru-Juja made a fast start with the opening goal as early as first minute with Michael Njenga’s fine finish after he collected a loose ball in the goal before Jackson Lemontoi equalised for the host, 15 minutes into the first half.

Six minutes to time, Lemontoi was on target again scoring the second goal after dodging the entire defence to tap the ball to the right far end of the net.