Soya finally here

It’s all systems go as the country seeks to award it’s top crème sportsmen and women in tonight’s Safaricom Sports Personality of the Year gala at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Celebrity guest Patrick M’Boma, who arrived in the country on Wednesday, will lead the nation in recognising the top performers of the past year in 20 categories, top of the list being the search for a heir to the overall title currently the preserve of Caleb Mwangangi Ndiku.

M’Boma, the Cameroonian second all-time scorer, an Olympic gold medallist and Africa Player of the Year 2000, said he is upbeat to grace the sports gala.

“Being a winner of several individual titles, I know these awards mean a lot to a player,” said M’Boma.

He observed that Kenyans have shown fighting spirit in their sport and Soya remains a key ingredient in inspiring the young talented athletes.

“To be in a country that dominates track and field is something very crucial. It’s an honour for me to be here,” observed M’boma. “This is an inclusive ceremony which recognises not one by many sports disciplines.”

Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia striker Michael Olunga and world javelin champion Julius Yego are among those who will be fighting for the top award.

Geoffrrey Kamworor

The duo will, however, have to contend with world champions Asbel Kiprop (1,500) and Geoffrey Kamworor (cross country) as well as Linus Sang (hockey).

Asbel Kiprono

 

Linus Sang

Professional volleyball star Mercy Moim headlines the sportswoman of the year award alongside world half marathon champion Gladys Cherono, world half marathon record holder Florence Kiplagat and world 3,000m steeplechase champion Hyvin Kiyeng.

Mercy Moim

Gladys Cherono

 

 Florence Kiplagat

 

Hyvin Kiyeng

Former KCB and Harambee Stars striker Paul Mungai Kiongera has been nominated for the comeback of the year award alongside rugby player Lawrence Buyachi of Nakuru RFC.

Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia who held on to their crown unbeaten last year to cap a hat trick of titles are up against national 15s rugby side (Simba) , KCB rugby, national hockey team and Harambee Stars in the men’s Team of the Year category.

KCB FC Kiongera Mungai during their Kenyan Premier League Match at City Stadium on April 9Photo/Fredrick Omondi

Lawrence Buyachi 

Volleyball dominates the women’s nominations with the Malkia Strikers team which won the Africa title and the FIVB World Grand Prix Group III battling their 2015 All Africa Games conquering compatriots.

Listed in the schools coach of the year category are Edgar Manyara of Wiyeta Girls (football), Rose Anyango (Obambo netball), Kelvin Lugalia (St. Anthony’s Kitale hockey), Richard Soi (AIC Kosirai volleyball) and Alloise Owino (Sinyolo Girls, hockey).

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