The shores of Kenya have been buzzing with excitement as Team Kenya’s Beach Tennis doubles team training intensifies for the highly anticipated 2nd edition of the Africa Beach Games in Hammamet, Tunisia.
With just two days remaining until the opening ceremony, the final touches have been made at the picturesque training venue of Buntwaani Waterfront Park in Kilifi County.
Team Kenya is sending two formidable doubles teams to compete, representing the nation with unwavering determination and a burning desire for victory.
The Women’s Doubles team features the dynamic pairing of Faith Urasa and Shufaa Ruwa Changawa. Faith and Shufaa, both exceptional tennis players, have seamlessly transitioned their skills to the sandy courts of Beach Tennis.
Their quick footwork, precise ball control, and tactical finesse have earned them a reputation as a formidable force. With their eyes set on triumph, they are poised to leave a lasting impression on the international stage.
In the Men’s Doubles category, Fazal Mohammed and Kazungu Kesi form a powerful partnership that exudes strength and agility.
Building on their previous success at the Cape Verde edition in 2019, where Fazal Khan and Ibrahim Yego secured a bronze medal, they entered the competition with a hunger for more accolades. Fazal Mohammed, a veteran of the sport, brings a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset to the court.
Kazungu Kesi, a rising talent, complements his partner’s skills with raw power and tenacity. Reflecting on their journey, Fazal Mohammed shared his excitement, saying, “I have dedicated eight years to the sport of tennis, and five years ago, I achieved a remarkable third-place finish in Africa.
Just three months ago, I emerged victorious at the Kenya Beach Games. Now, we are fully prepared and motivated to aim for the gold medal.”
Fazal’s deep connection with the sandy shores of Malindi has instilled in him a resilience that will serve him well on the challenging sand courts of Tunisia.
He emphasizes the unique demands of Beach Tennis, where players must be unforgiving yet precise, adapting their techniques to conquer the shifting terrain.
Shufaa Ruwa Changawa, known for her exceptional talent and sibling partnership with brother Ismail Changawa, embraces the opportunity to compete in beach tennis.
Despite navigating personal milestones and an interrupted sporting calendar due to the global pandemic, her determination remains unyielding.
“The journey has been filled with twists and turns. From facing the unexpected challenges of COVID-19 to becoming a mother and relocating, I am thrilled to make a comeback by the end of the year. Partnering with Faith Urasa, we are ready to give our best performance and make Kenya proud,” she affirmed.
Team Kenya’s Beach Tennis doubles team will participate in multiple categories, including men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles, displaying their versatility and adaptability.
With their unwavering commitment, honed skills, and the support of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K), and the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Arts, and Sports they are determined to make their mark at the Africa Beach Games, representing Kenya living up to the motto #Inpiringthenation.
