Kenyans eye slots at world championships

Moses Rono of DCI in action at Polokwane shooting range in Limpopo, South Africa. [Caroline Obuya]

A team of 25 shooters from Kenya was among the approximately 400 participants who took part in the Limpopo handgun level 3 championships over the weekend.

The contest which took place at the Polokwane shooting range in Limpopo, South Africa was the main national selection match for the team that will take part in the IPSC world championships in Thailand.

Kenya was represented by 4 masters: Ibrahim Ndung’u, Eng. Robert Nyamongo, Eng. Sammy Onyango, Thomas Kiilu, a host of sharpshooters and marksmen from the disciplined forces and civilians.

The Kenyan team put up a spirited fight under the scorching sun and challenging stages in the two days event with Master Ibrahim Ndung’u emerging 10th overall in production division.

Master Eng. Robert Nyamongo was 6th in super senior while sharpshooter Agnes Wangeci from DCI managed 4th place in Production division ladys’ category.

It was a maiden international tourney for sharpshooter Agnes Wangeci who reacted with excitement in her placing.

“It is hard to put this feeling into words. I am very glad to have participated in a very big, important and momentous match in my life,” said Agnes.

“I learnt a lot of lessons from international champions which will help me improve on my performance. I am deeply thankful to my trainers and team mates for their support.”

According to the match director Gokhan Aydin from Germany, the match was a very tough one.

“The match was a tough one, couldn’t imagine that the sun can be that more different than the last two times. But it was, and it was hot as hell,” said Aydin.

South Africa Practical Shooting Association (SAPSA) Vice Chairman Wanda Zama who won two medals in the event dedicated his win to the Kenyans and wished them well in the selection for the world championships.

The event is the first international outing this year for the Kenyan shooting team as they prepare for the IPSC World championships to be held in Thailand later this year.