The PIPSSA Kenya Invitational Swimming Championship, held over the weekend at the Moi Educational Centre, concluded in spectacular fashion as Lukenya Academy emerged as the overall champions. The event brought together top swimming talent from schools across the region, creating an intense and thrilling competition over two days.

In the girls’ category, Lukenya Dolphins delivered an impressive performance, securing the top spot with an extraordinary 2,943 points. This comprehensive victory is a testament to the dedication and skill of Lukenya’s swimmers. Coming in as the 1st runners-up, Moi Educational Center showcased formidable swimming talent, amassing a total of 1,743.50 points. Nova Sharks secured the 2nd runners-up position with a respectable 943 points, underscoring the depth of competition at this championship.

The competition in the boys’ category was equally fierce, but once again, Lukenya Dolphins proved their mettle. They clinched the top position with 1,555 points, a clear reflection of the team’s strength and consistency. Urafiki Carovana School put up a valiant effort to finish as the 1st runners-up with 1,001 points, while Merishaw School closely followed as the 2nd runners-up, scoring 963 points.

Following Lukenya Academy’s triumphant performance, Head Coach Ben Okoth shared his thoughts on the hard-earned victory. “I am happy my team has won the overall title, which we have really worked hard with my swimmers. Most of my swimmers improved their personal best times,” said Okoth in an interview with Kenya Swimming TV. “The journey is not yet over since we are training hard for the East African Chipkizi Swimming Championship scheduled for December this year. Last year, my team participated, and there was stiff competition, especially from Tanzanian teams. This time around, we don’t want to take anything to chance and hence our rigorous training.”

Okoth’s words reflect the relentless spirit of the Lukenya Academy team, who, despite their recent success, are already setting their sights on the upcoming East African Championship in December. This focused approach illustrates why Lukenya has been a dominant force in school swimming competitions.

Mark Gaya, PIPSSA Kenya Coordinator, emphasized the broader role of sports in student development. “PIPSSA Kenya is a sports brand well known to many schools in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. We have a program entailing all sports, and we have partnered with schools to boost extra-curricular activities and sports in general,” Gaya stated. He highlighted the increasing recognition of sports as a viable career path, akin to other professional pursuits. “Right now, sports is a well-paying job just like other professions and hence can’t be dismissed,” Gaya added.

Gaya also gave a glimpse of PIPSSA’s packed calendar for the current term, which includes the Athletics Championship set to take place next weekend at Mpesa Foundation Academy in Thika, followed by the renowned annual multi-sports tournament at Oshwal Academy in Mombasa. Several schools, including Riara, Rophine, Potterhouse, Regis, Mt. Kenya Academy, Kiota, Makini, Juja St. Peter’s and St. Christopher’s School Nanyuki, have confirmed their participation in the Mombasa event.

Expressing admiration for PIPSSA’s competitive structure, Victor Rutto, Head of Extra Curricular Activities at Nova Pioneer, stated, “We like the PIPSSA program since it is competitive and well organized. We look forward to participating in Arusha and next year in Kigali in April.” Rutto’s remarks reflect the enthusiasm and anticipation among schools for the international opportunities that PIPSSA provides.

The Road Ahead
Lukenya Academy’s success at the PIPSSA Invitational is a testament to the team’s hard work, discipline, and commitment to excellence. Their eyes are now set on the forthcoming East African Chipkizi Swimming Championship in December, where they hope to further cement their legacy in the regional swimming scene. With rigorous training in full swing, Coach Okoth and his team are determined to face their rivals, particularly those from Tanzania, with renewed strength and strategy.

The PIPSSA Invitational Swimming Championship not only showcased the prowess of young swimmers but also highlighted the crucial role of sports in shaping the character and future of students. As schools and athletes gear up for future tournaments, PIPSSA Kenya continues to foster a culture of sportsmanship, competitiveness, and regional cooperation among schools in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

This weekend’s championship at Moi Educational Centre will undoubtedly be remembered for its thrilling races, remarkable individual and team performances, and the celebration of youthful talent. As the curtains close on this event, the swimming community eagerly looks forward to the next wave of competitive action.