AK Youth Development Director Emphasizes Grassroots Talent Nurturing

AK Youth Development Chair Barnaba Korir with Janeth Jepkosgei and Uasin Gishu AK Chairman

Athletics Kenya (AK), through its Youth Development Department, reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing young athletic talent during an inter-camp competition held at Complete Sports Centre in Kaptagat.

The event, which took place during the school holidays, brought together several high-profile training camps, including Complete Sports Centre, Global Sports Communications, St. Patrick’s Iten U20 Camp—led by legendary coach Brother Colm O’Connell—and All for Running, founded by former world champion Janeth Jepkosgei.

Speaking at the event, AK Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir said the initiative was part of a broader strategy to build a strong foundation for the future of Kenyan athletics.

“We are working closely with camps across the country to ensure that talented students have the right support and training from an early age. This inter-camp competition is not just about performance—it’s about identifying potential and providing a structured pathway to the senior level,” said Korir.

Athletes competing during inter-camp competition at Complete Sports Centre in Kaptagat

The collaboration with various camps during school holidays is one of the many steps AK is taking to bridge the gap between junior and senior categories in athletics. In partnership with the Ministry of Sports, the federation has so far established over 50 youth training camps countrywide, acting as key development hubs and talent pipelines for junior athletes.

The competition in Kaptagat showcased the depth of talent within the youth ranks and highlighted AK’s  commitment to the next generation of champions.

“Our aim is to sustain Kenya’s global dominance in athletics by investing in the youth today. These camps are where the future stars are born,” Korir added.

The event also served as a platform for young athletes to gain competitive experience, build confidence, and interact with role models who have shaped Kenya’s athletic legacy.

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