Pan continental

At the heart of the Kenya Curling Federation lies an unwavering spirit fueled by dreams and determination. We may be newcomers to the world of curling, a sport that isn’t widely known here, but our passion runs deep. Every day, we strive to put Kenya on the global curling map, and while there are many challenges we face, so too is our resolve to overcome them.

Financial Challenges:
Imagine training hard, dreaming of international competitions, and facing the reality of limited funding. Unfortunately, this season has been no different for us. Despite our best efforts to secure support, we find ourselves without government backing, making it increasingly difficult to cover travel, accommodation, and training expenses for our dedicated athletes.

Training Facilities:
One of our biggest hurdles is the lack of a dedicated ice rink. While we make the most of floor curling sessions, they simply can’t replicate the real experience of playing on ice. This puts our athletes at a disadvantage when compared to their peers around the world, but they refuse to let this hurdle define their journey.

In October 2024, the Federation successfully funded participation in two major championships:

  • The World Mixed Curling Championship (WMxCC) in Aberdeen, Scotland
  • The Pan Continental Curling Championship (PCCC) in Lacombe, Canada

Both events showcased the resilience and determination of our athletes. Despite the challenges they faced, the teams performed commendably, gaining invaluable experience and improving Kenya’s standing in the global curling rankings. These efforts have brought Kenya closer to qualifying for the 2026 Winter Olympics, a historic milestone for the nation.

Even with these struggles, we have some incredible news! Our junior athletes have qualified for the World Junior B Curling Championship (WJBCC), taking place in Lohja, Finland, from December 9–18, 2024. This is a significant opportunity for them—doing well here could open the gateway to the World Junior Curling Championship (WJCC) in Edmonton, Canada, in 2025. These competitions are about so much more than just curling; they represent a chance to showcase our progress and inspire young athletes across Kenya.

With no government funding in sight, we’re reaching out to our community for support. We’ve launched a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe to help cover essential expenses, like flights and accommodation, for our junior team’s journey to the WJBCC and WJCC. Every bit helps, and we genuinely appreciate every donation, no matter how small. It’s heartwarming to see people coming together for a cause they believe in.

Visit our GoFundMe page and help us make history for the Kenya Curling Federation. Together, let’s support our athletes and show the world that with community spirit, no dream is too big. It’s time for Kenya to shine on the curling stage, and we can’t do it without your help!

Kenya Curling Federation: Breaking Barriers, One Stone at a Time.

Peter
November 25, 2024

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