The Punter
20 August 2008
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Nairobi — The Kenya under-19 rugby team tackles hosts Tunisia on Thursday as the Africa Rugby Confederation tournament kicks off.
Oliver Kituyi, the team manager, said all was well after the players polished up their moves on Wednesday morning. "It is quite hot here with temperatures at 35 degrees centigrade but the players have adapted well," Kituyi said.
Coach Mitch Ocholla has experienced players capable of measuring up to the tough competition. Some of the players already have already competed in the Kenya Cup league.
Among these are Patrice Agunda, Owen Ocholla, Ryan Musumba, Eric Kioko, Joseph Abala and Mathew Musalia.
Kilimanjaro Sevens
Three Zimbabwe, Namibia and Uganda - teams were expected on Wednesday. Madagascar pulled out while Cote d'Ivoire were doubtful.
It is evident that the participating countries are feeling the pinch. Some countries have written to the International Rugby Board alleging the CAR tournaments are eating into the meagre funds.
The African body is only contributing one third of the travelling expenses. A letter from three African countries stated the burden was too much.
"We urge CAR to look for alternative funding instead of relying on grants from the IRB," the letter read in part.
Each country is allocated $18,000 (about Sh1.2 million) and require another $15,000 (Sh1 million). Elsewhere, the 15th Kilimanjaro Sevens will be hosted by Moshi Kili Cats on October 4 in Arusha.
This is just one week before the Kenya Rugby Football Union National Sevens Circuit kicks off. Ben Wiggins who is co-ordinating the entries said Kilimanjaro Sevens will be a good platform for Kenyan sides ahead of the national circuit.
Women teams have also been invited.
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