Boost for young athletes as Tegla Loroupe Foundation launches Sports Academy in West Pokot

Young athletes and sports people from West Pokot County are set to benefit after the Tegla Loroupe Foundation launched a sports academy to promote athlete development, reshape   and improve competitiveness in sports in the semi-arid pastoral region.

The groundbreaking of the Strengthening Athlete Excellence Program through the Tegla Loroupe Peace Academy funded by The Agence Française de development (AFD) and supported by Play International, Diambers Institute and Save The Dream, marks a pivotal moment in the academy's rich legacy in athletics.

The programme which is aimed at revamping the sports curriculum, upgrading training equipment, and integrating peace building and environmental modules is set to redefine athlete development beyond the traditional boundaries.

One of the key components of the project is to enhance athletic performance through a modernised curriculum and advanced coaching methods for athletics, soccer, basketball, and volleyball.

The programme also places a strong emphasis on promoting gender equality and empowering girls through sports.

Retired athlete Tegla Loroupe, the renowned Kenyan retired long-distance runner and founder of the academy, expressed her excitement about the project's potential impact.

"We are thrilled to embark on this journey towards holistic athlete development. The Strengthening Athlete Excellence Programme represents a significant step forward in our commitment to nurturing not only exceptional athletes but also responsible global citizens," said Loroupe.

With upgraded training equipment and facilities, students at the academy are poised to receive world-class training to hone their skills and excel in their respective sports.

"With access to state-of-the-art equipment and specialised training techniques, our athletes will be better prepared to compete at the highest levels," she said.

"By integrating peace building and environmental conservation modules into the curriculum, the academy aims to empower its students to become agents of positive change in their communities," said the veteran athlete.

She said sports plays a crucial role in fostering peaceful co-existence in the region which has witnessed armed conflicts in the past.

"Through this programme, we hope to instil in these young athletes the values of teamwork, respect, and cooperation--essential for building a more harmonious world," she explained.

By providing training, awareness-raising initiatives, and fostering gender diversity, the academy aims to create a more inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

"We are committed to breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for all our students. Through sports, we aim to empower girls to pursue their dreams and become leaders in their communities," she said.

The Strengthening Athlete Excellence Programme also seeks to promote holistic development by encouraging students to excel not only in sports, but also in their academic pursuits.

By increasing student commitment to their studies and providing greater career support, the programme aims to enhance youth employability and prepare students for success beyond the playing field.

As the programme takes flight, stakeholders, and supporters are eager to witness the transformative impact it will have on the academy's students and their communities.

French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet, who attended the launch of the academy at the Tegla Loroupe Academy, noted that the programme embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovations.

"We are proud to support initiatives that not only promote athletic excellence, but also contribute to building a more sustainable and peaceful world," said the ambassador.

With the launch of the Strengthening Athlete Excellence Programme, the Tegla Loroupe Peace Academy is poised to set new standards in athlete development, paving the way for a future where excellence extends beyond the playing field, shaping responsible champions who strive for peace, and sustainability.