Team Kenya’s campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games got underway on Thursday 23rd July with the national bowls team taking on New Zealand in the women’s pairs event in Glasgow, Scotland.
The match marked Kenya’s first event at the Games, with bowls and para bowls getting the competition underway ahead of the official opening ceremony later in the day.
Kenya headed into the Games after weeks of preparations, including a residential training camp at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where athletes from different disciplines trained together before departing for Scotland.
During the team’s flag-off, National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) Vice President Barnaba Korir urged the athletes to fly the country’s flag high.
“You are more than competitors; you are ambassadors of our nation. Every time you step onto the track, into the ring, onto the court or onto the field of play, you carry with you the hopes and aspirations of more than 50 million Kenyans,” said Korir.
He called on the team to remain united and disciplined throughout the Games and wished them success in Glasgow.
Overall Team Kenya captain Julius Yego said the athletes were ready for the challenge.
“The team is really excited. Everyone is ready, motivated and looking forward to competing for top honours at the Commonwealth Games,” said Yego.
Yego also praised NOC-K for supporting the team’s preparations.
“NOCK has done a great job with our accommodation and preparations, and I can assure you that every team is ready,” he added.
Team Kenya co-captain Zeddy Cherotich thanked the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports for supporting the athletes throughout their preparations.
“Your investment in our journey has given us the confidence to prepare well and represent our country in Glasgow,” she said.
Cherotich also acknowledged NOCK for organising the residential training camp.
“The camp has allowed us to prepare together, learn from one another and build a true Team Kenya spirit,” she said.
Lawn bowls remains one of Kenya’s medal hopefuls at the Commonwealth Games, with the country having consistently featured in the competition over the years as the sport continues to grow locally.
Kenya is represented at the Glasgow Games in athletics, boxing, weightlifting, basketball, wheelchair basketball, bowls and para sports.
