Tergat urges Kenyan athletes to prioritize safety amid sweltering Accra weather

National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) President Paul Tergat has urged athletes to prioritize hydration and seek shelter indoors to combat the scorching weather conditions prevailing in Accra, Ghana. Tergat emphasized that neglecting these precautions could significantly impact the athletes' performance.

"I understand the challenges of competing in such extreme weather. The temperatures in Accra are exceptionally high, so athletes must stay hydrated and remain indoors when not actively participating," Tergat stressed.

Speaking to athletes at the games camp at Accra University, Tergat, accompanied by Chef de mission David Ngugi, Team Kenya's Akama, Kenya National Sports Council (KNSC) chairman Nderitu Gikaria, and Sports Registrar Rose Wasike, drew from his own experiences, stating, "I have competed in similar conditions before, and I know how to navigate such situations."

The marathon legend also encouraged Team Kenya to strive for excellence and maximize their medal tally.

"This presents a significant platform for athletes to showcase their abilities. Participation in the Africa Games serves as a springboard to prestigious events like the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. Therefore, the games demand the utmost seriousness," he emphasized.

Ngugi echoed Tergat's sentiments, attributing changes in the World Cross Country Championships calendar to Tergat's exceptional performances.

"Tergat's consistent dominance in cross-country prompted global authorities to adjust the championship schedule to biennial," Ngugi revealed.

Highlighting the importance of stellar performances, Ngugi emphasized, "This is an excellent opportunity for Kenya to excel and secure medals. I have full confidence in our formidable team."

Athletics commenced today in Accra, with 800-meter world champion Mary Moraa scheduled to compete in the women's 400m heats at 6:30 PM EAT, alongside Jackline Nanjala and Routine Thomas.

Muthoki Kennedy Kimeu and David Kapirants on the other side will compete in the men's 400m heat slated for 7:00 PM, while Edwin Kimitai and Winny Chepngetich will vie for honours in men's High Jump Deca and women's Triple Jump Deca, respectively.

On Sunday, Kenya’s Faith Ogallo clinched a bronze medal in the heavyweight female +73kg category, bringing the total number of bronze medals won to four. Weightlifter Esther Khavetsa secured the first bronze in the 45kg category, followed by Juliana Anyango, who competed in the 81kg category, securing a similar medal after lifting 73kg in snatch and 92kg in clean and jerk, totalling 165kg.