Jason Frisby corrected his mistakes and came back strongly to win August Mug Golf Tournament at the Arusha Gymkhana Club (AGC) over the weekend.

The son of AGC Chairman Tony Frisby, Jason, handicap- 11, overcame a stiff challenge to clinch the Division A title after carding 72 nett at the 18 holes stroke play event.

He snatched the title from July champion Simon Travers, who missed last weekend’s event and his father, who was June champion.

Jason was in trouble in July when he finished second runner-up with 82 nett behind Travers and AGC Secretary Richard Gomes, but he managed to cut off ten shots to win last month’s title.

Muzzafar Yusufali, handicap- 10, finished first runnerup in Division A on countback after carding 73 nett. Second runner-up was handicap- 11 Tony Frisby who also carded 73 nett.

Handicap-6 Gomez, who was placed third in July, was no match this time around as he settled in the 8th position with 81 nett.

Playing off handicap-15 the Tanzania Golf Union (TGU) Treasurer Gelase Ruta fired the tournament’s best score of 67 nett to win the Division B title from July champion Rick Baghel, who was promoted to Division A after his impressive 65 nett, but was among those who missed the tournament last month.

Perfect Lyimo, handicap-18, fired 70 nett to finish first runner-up as handicap-24 Harbajan Chadha became the second runner-up with 75 nett. Ruta and Lyimo’s handicaps were improved to 13 and 17 due to their stunning performances.

Shakir Bandali came back strongly this time to end Aayush Nathwani’s dominance in Division C.

Bandali, handicap-25, fired the tournament’s second best score of 69 to win Division C title; Musadding Versi, handicap-25, finished second with 76 to push July winner Nathwani, handicap-26, to third position with 77 nett.

Rwanda national team coach Paul Bitok has said the country will get better results in future international competitions including the world championships.

Coach Paul Bitok

The U21 volleyball junior national team finished in 20th position in the 2013 FIVB World Championships for Boys and Bitok believes the experience gained from competing with the best teams in the world will put Rwanda in a good position.

“I promise that in the future, we will get better results. This team has learned a lot from the tournament. We learned that we should fight until the end no matter who we play against” said the former Kenya national team center player.

He added, “The players’ mindset towards the game and competitions has changed a lot and I think we are now a better team than when we went for the World Championships, but we will continue to prepare more young players for future competitions.”

The national team returned to the country on Monday night from Turkey where Russia won the World Championships on Sunday after beating Brazil 3-0 (25-16, 25-16, and 25-20).

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

The recently crowned world super middleweight champion Francis Cheka, who made American fighter Phil Williams surrender the belt to him, has requested the government to help check out on the integrity of boxing promoters as some have proved to be more of an obstacle than supporting sources.

Francis Cheka

Cheka, who was showered with praise by Deputy Speaker Job Ndugai for excellent representation of Tanzania in the just-concluded bout against the American and clinching the World Boxing Federation (WBF) title, recalled various incidents whereby he never received the payment as promised.

“I am glad that the Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Fenella Mukangara, is interested in promoting boxing in the country. But the biggest challenge must be resolved and this is none other than promoters who do not honour their promises,” he said.

The boxer, however, spoke about lack of boxing arenas as most of the bouts were held in halls which are not designed for boxing. Minister Mukangara pledged the government’s commitment to promote boxing — both amateur and professional – nationwide.

“The National Sports Council (NSC) and the government will assist Cheka to prepare well for the defence of his belt,” she said. Additional efforts are underway to reach out the community especially in the Lake Zone regions where you have well-built people. A Boxing Academy will now receive serious attention for more people to join,” she explained.

As for construction of a boxing arena which would meet international standards, the minister said negotiations were in top gear with professionals from developed countries to provide consultancy.

It was further learnt that François Botha, twice heavyweight world champion will make a second trip to Tanzania in November this year to promote Cheka and advise on construction of the best boxing arena. President of the Tanzania Professional Boxing Organization (TPBO), Yasin Abdallah (Ustadhi), asked companies in the country to remember supporting boxing as well and not focus on football alone.

“Boxing is not hooliganism. This is the only game that has painted clean the name of Tanzania recently in the international arena. We need genuine support. We would like to be assisted to construct a boxing arena which will be known as Jakaya Kikwete Boxing Arena,” he said.

As for the delayed payment to the American fighter, Ustadh confirmed that he left the country without being paid his money but the matter was being handled by the international police (Interpol).

CEO of Nai Incorporation Company Limited Catherine Metili invited energetic young men to join boxing as the game shows light at the end of the tunnel.

“In international boxing ratings, Cheka has shifted from the 35th position to 21st. This is quite impressive. We are glad that the minister (Mukangara) is in full support of the initiative,” she said. Cheka beat Williams “The Drill” on points in the 12-round bout at the Diamond Jubilee Hall in Dar es Salaam on Friday.

By BILHAM KIMATI, Tanzania Daily News

The national junior Karate team yesterday started preparations for the World Juniors and Cadet Karate Championships 2013 set for November 7-10, in Guadalajara, Spain. The championships will attract close to 100 countries.

Solange Ingabire is one of the four karatekas, who won bronze medals in Tunis

This comes shortly after four members of the junior team, on Tuesday, returned home, with four bronze medals won during the August 26 – September 2, seventh cadets, junior and under 21 African championships in Tunis, Tunisia.

According to the Rwandan Karate Federation (FERWAKA) Technical Director, Guy Didier Rurangayire (fourth dan), three members of the team – Rurangayire Christian, Ngarambe Vanily, and Ingabire, all 20 years old, started training yesterday evening, at Amahoro National Stadium in Remera.

“They will train together with senior members of the national team since training for all teams, as usual, is on every Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” said Rurangayire, a black belt holder.

Three others – Jeanne d’Arc Umumararungu, 17, Alphani Nsabimana, 19, Aisha Umuhoza, 19, who are students, will be training during week-ends.

“These three have gone back to school but since competition will be during exams time, we are yet to decide if they will travel,” he added.

In Tunis, Umumararungu, Nsabimana, Umuhoza and Ingabire, each won Bronze in their respective categories at the El Menzah Sports palace – the Olympic city.

Umuhoza and Nsabimana competed under the individual Kata category, while Ingabire and Umumararungu tussled it out in Kumite in the over 60Kg and the under 54Kg competitive weight groupings, respectively.

By James Karuhanga,The New Times

Archrivals Charity Cricket Club and Kigali Angels CC clash in the second semi-final of the women’s UAE EXCHANGE & XPRESS MONEY T20 league on today at Kicukiro cricket oval.

Jeanne d’arc Akingeneye of Queens of Victory scored 31 runs against Charity CC last weekend

The winner of today’s game will qualify for the final to face Queens of Victory CC, who have already qualified after winning all the games in the preliminary round.

Meanwhile, the men’s semi-finals are scheduled to be played tomorrow at the Kicukiro ground.

Kerala Hunters CC and Challengers CC finished first and second respectively in group A, as was Telugu CC and Kigali CC in group B.

Kerala CC lost their last preliminary game last weekend against Victory CC but still qualified for the semis because of their high run rate.

Saturday
Women’s semi-final
Charity CC      vs     Kigali Angels CC   8:30am
Sunday
Men’s semi-finals
Kerala Hunter CC    vs     Kigali CC
8:30am
Telugu CC     vs     Challengers CC   12:30pm

For the second consecutive year, Rwandan schools finished the East African post primary games without any title win. This year’s edition was held in Lira, Northern Uganda from August 24 to September 1 and Rwanda came in fourth position.

Father Innocent Gatete

Out of 17 teams that represented the country, seven reached the semi-finals and only four reached finals but none of them managed to win a title in their respective disciplines.

The four semi-finalist teams were Solidarity Academy in girls’ football, ESG Rubavu in boys’ football, GS Indangaburezi in girls’ volleyball and ES Kigoma in boys’ handball.

Solidarity Academy lost 5-4 on penalties in the final following a goalless draw against Kenya’s Tartar. Last year in Bujumbura, they also lost 5-4 on penalties after a 1-all draw against Kawempe Muslim of Uganda.

In boys’ football, ESIG Rubavu were beaten 4-0 by six-times champions, Saint Mary’s Kitende of Uganda. ES Kigoma lost narrowly 25-26 to South Sudan team Wou in the boys’ handball, while Indangaburezi lost 3-2 to Kenya’s Wanthanza in girls’ volleyball.

In an interview with Saturday Sport, the chairman of the Rwanda School Sports Federation, Father Innocent Gatete said, “I don’t fault our teams for not winning any title, reaching four different finals is a big achievement itself.  They did the best they could.”

“The teams had played well but a mixture of bad luck and unfair refereeing cost us titles in the boys’ handball, girls’ football and volleyball. The only final we didn’t deserve to win was boys’ football,” he noted.

Rwanda finished fourth with four silver and two bronze medals behind Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan. Tanzania, Burundi and debutants Zanzibar ranked behind Rwanda.

According to tentative plans, Tanzania will host next year’s edition, while Rwanda will organise the 2015 games.

By Richard Bishumba,The New Times

The Ministry of Sports and Culture has injected Rwf25m to support SEC Academy, Saturday Sport has learnt.

The Director of Sports, Bugingo Emmanuel.

“It is just a one-off because they requested for financial help from the ministry.  They are doing a good job  in detecting and developing the young talent.  The money is to help them to buy equipment and pay the coaches,” said the Director of Sports in Ministry of Sports and Culture, Emmanuel Bugingo.

He noted, “We are happy as the Ministry of Sports and Culture to help them because they (SEC Academy) are doing a good job as far as young talent development programmes is concerned. They know what to do with the money and we hope they put it to the intended use,” Bugingo explained.

Bugingo said the money will facilitate the academy in talent search across the country to eventually  help to raise the level football in Rwanda.

SEC Academy will send five players to play for Portuguese fourth division side ADFA (Associação Desportiva de Fornos de Algodres).

The five players include; goalkeeper Steven Ntalibi, midfielder Shadad Nsengayire, defenders Hertier Turatsinze and Soter Kayumba as well as striker Isaac Muganza.

The Kicukiro-based football Academy has already sent Blaise Itangishaka to the Aspire Academy in Senegal and Amavubi defender Salomon Nirisarike to Belgium second tier side Royal Antwerp.

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

Rwanda cycling Federation (Ferwacy) chairman Aimable Bayingana has tipped Rwandan riders to shine in this year’s Tour du Rwanda, which will run from November 17 to 24.

Adrien Niyonshuti, seen here, competing in last year’s Tour du Rwanda, will be a big miss for Team Rwanda

Bayingana believes the home riders will do better this year and also hope that a Rwandan will finally win the Tour in not so distant future.

The main objective for the local riders in the UCI sanctioned Tour du Rwanda is to get used to competing at the highest level possible against some of the best riders from the African continent and beyond.

No Rwandan has won the competition since it became an international cycling tour in 2006, but Bayingana thinks that could change sooner rather than later.

He said, “I believe this year will be able to see great improvement for our riders. We could even win the event, you never know, especially that the riders are getting the best possible preparations by competing in various international competitions.”

“We have good riders, who can compete on a high level and we believe that they will make a big difference this time round,” Bayingana said during a press conference this week.

However, the only down side of this year’s Tour is the absence of Rwanda’s top rider, Adrien Niyonshuti who is still recovering from a career-threatening illness, which has sidelined him since the start of the year.

For the first time, the Tour du Rwanda will cover the areas of the Eastern Province, particularly Kirehe District where the riders will cover a distance of 129,9km.

This year’s Tour will attract 16 teams from different countries. Rwanda will be represented by three teams after the organisers, Ferwacy, added a third team (Muhabura) to usual two; Kalisimbi and Akagera.

Other teams are Novo Nordisk from USA and Team Sovac Algeria. Two European Team, Team Avia Crabbe from Belgium and Rhone Alpes from France

Nine teams from African countries include; South Africa, Ethiopia, Egypt, Kenya, Algeria, Gabon, RDC, UCI Continental Center and Team As Be Co of Eritrea.

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

Moses Golola has been on the path to redemption after having to cope with fierce criticism from fans after a crushing defeat in 2012. Fresh off the shortest fight of his career, the motor mouthed fighter opens up about his quest for a Heroes medal and retirement plans.

Moses Golola

You are coming off the shortest fight of your career. Was that your sweetest win given the circumstances?

I had to put Titus Tugume in his place so it was a sweet win. A knockout can be a plan for any fighter but the preparation for it is the most important part so it starts in the gym and my Dutch coach Andrelina helped me prepare for it.

When in our amateur ranks, I beat Tugume because he was in my weight category. I was shocked he was saying all those things before the fight because I’m sure he knows how good I am. He has never respected me but I deserve plenty of respect for what I have done for kickboxing even if I am not the best kick boxer out there. I have put the game on the Ugandan map.

Tugume isn’t a bad fighter but I think he hasn’t been through professional hands yet, which is the only way to make him better. Until recently, I was trained by local coaches and they got me to a certain level but they couldn’t take me any further.

That is why in education, you don’t carry your teacher from nursery school to primary, secondary and university levels. The levels are different.

I didn’t have a professional trainer when I started kickboxing but I knew I had to step up a level and I almost went to Thailand for training but I settled for Nairobi because I found Andrelina was good enough for the job.

If you want to become a better fighter, why then are you reluctant to go abroad and compete there?

Everyone urges me to go abroad and pursue professional kickboxing but I’ve always had my heart set on making it big at home. You know what they say, east or west, home is best.

I love my country so much because I get so much support here. I don’t think there is anyone singing Kassim Ouma’s name in the US right now. I thrive so much on support something I can’t get abroad.

Tugume cried foul after the fight. Is there hope for rematch?

I don’t mind a rematch but it isn’t the best thing for Tugume. When he got off the canvas, he asked when the fight was going to begin but it had already ended! Professionally, he has to rest for at least 6 months so it will not be the best thing for his career. Right now he is like a computer which has lost RAM.

Kickboxing fans are eager for a fight between you and your good friend Ronald Mugula. Will that ever happen? 

Mugula is my friend but I don’t mind fighting him. He is definitely one of the best Ugandan kick boxers, he is very skilled and it would be a great spectacle for fans but it will have to happen at the right time for me. I have nothing left to prove.

I’m grateful for what Mugula has done for the sport locally. I remember one time when we were still amateurs returning from a trip to Kenya and he turned to me and told me he wanted to move to Europe because he was frustrated with the lack of progress at home but I am glad he didn’t desert his country.

You were treated to a lot of criticism after you lost to Mate Zsamboki. How did you deal with that?

That was the lowest point of my career. The backlash was severe despite the fact that I was genuinely injured. I love this game so much and I have given it my all and when I was starting out, I didn’t have a punching bag or even a pair of gloves so I was heartbroken.

I was called all sorts of things ‘Golola simply drinks porridge, Golola is a thief’ and things of the sort. I even heard one lady on radio challenging me to a fight. I couldn’t get out of the house for a week and many thoughts crossed my mind during that time.

It wasn’t until a couple of weeks later when I went to Nakivubo for the opening ceremony of Masaza Cup and got massive cheers; that really lifted me. After that, all I could think about was to redeem myself and I was very determined to do so.

Is Zsamboki the most formidable opponent you’ve faced thus far?

Not at all. Tanzanian Japheth Kaseba who is now into boxing was probably the strongest I have ever faced. It was in 2006 in Zanzibar. He had very strong low kicks and my legs were swollen after the fight. Andras Nagy was good too but I lost that fight because my preparations were shabby.

My management team was disorganised; I didn’t have gloves just an hour before the fight began and so many things went wrong that night and by the time I took to the ring, I was angry and disoriented.

You’ve talked about development of the game a lot but we’ve seen many sports die over the years. Can kickboxing survive without you?

I’m glad God blessed my tongue and I’m able to entertain people that way and attract fans to the sport and I want to dedicate my life to kickboxing.

Look at boxing. It used to be very popular but it isn’t anymore. You can’t blame the president when you have people he has put directly in charge of the ministry; they have let him down. The people in the ministry know nothing about the plight of sportsmen so I don’t feel like we are being represented accurately.

He shouldn’t waste resources hiring people to come and preach about patriotism…if this money is put into sports, talented kids will grow up wanting to represent their country and feel proud about it.

When I retire which will be soon, I won’t desert the game; I’m only getting started. There are some very talented fighters like Ddamulira ‘Ring doctor’ Richard, Bukenya Sharif and many others who I want to help develop.

My dream is to have so many top fighters in different divisions and I want there to be at least one major fight monthly.

So you actually habour retirement plans?

I will retire at the end of next year. I have at least 3 good fights left in me but at the moment I am in good shape so I will fight again soon and October is a possibility. I also plan to fight against a Thai fighter before I hang my gloves.

After I retire, I want to dedicate my efforts towards development of the game. I have secured equipment like punching bags and gloves that are going to be distributed all over the country for kids to use. I want to inspire as many kids as possible.

When you eventually retire, what legacy do you want to leave behind?

I want to be known as the man who gave kickboxing its legs in Uganda; its hero. Someone who developed the sport and inspired many others to join the sport. Simple as that. I am also waiting for the president to give me a medal.

By Pius Arinawe, The New Vision

Rwanda Taekwondo Federation’s Technical Director, Martin Koonce has been appointed on the Africa Taekwondo Union (AFTU) as the in-charge of the Zone V region, the federation’s Secretary General Placide Bagabo has told Times Sport.

Martin Koonce

Koonce, who is also the national team coach, has been called up to take the responsibility by the AFTU president, Ahmed Fouly, who doubles as the vice president of the World Taekwondo Federation.

Bagabo said, “This appointment is good for Rwandan taekwondo in many ways on the African continent both from a competition and technical perspective.”

“We’re his appointment and we need to make sure Rwanda takes full advantage of his position and contacts,” he added.

Koonce’s main objective is to unite the zone through competitions and help those federations that have become inactive to operate again and more so effectively.

The Zone V area is comprised of Burundi, Comoros Islands, Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.

In region, Rwanda is the highest ranked nation according to the newly released results after the 2013 World Taekwondo championships that were held in Mexico from July 15-21.

Rwanda is ranked sixth on the African continent and among the top 40 in the world. The six-day event attracted 168 countries from across the world.

Meanwhile the Taekwondo federation will organize a three-day tournament dubbed the ‘Ambassador Cup’ on September 12-14 at Amahoro indoor stadium.

It is expected to attract ten countries including; host Rwanda, DRC, Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Egypt, Gabon and Congo Brazzaville.

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

Plans are underway for Tanzania to organise the first National Sportwomen Cup tournament early next year, it has been leant. To start with, five regions — Mwanza, Arusha, Ruvuma, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar — will compete in women’s soccer, netball, volleyball and athletics.

The idea emerged during the International Inspiration Tanzania Women’s Task Force meeting held at the British Council in the city over the weekend. The Women’s Task Force Committee feels that there is need to organise such an event which will bring together girls and sportswomen to sensitize, promote and cultivate a culture for them get involved in sports.

The National Task Force chairperson Irene Mwasanga said that the idea has come at the right moment, but it needs the support of public and private companies and institutions and well-wishers to make it happen.

“The committee agree that after a job well done in terms of educating women sports leaders through seminars, it is now time to bring all these people together and show what they did in the few years the programme has been in existence,” she said.

Mwasanga said former Registrar of National Sports Associations and Clubs Rachel Masamu, who is one of the committee members, has been given the task to lead a sub-committee that will initiate the idea.

She said since she was given the task last year her committee has done a lot to involve girls and women in sports in the five regions that are under the programme.

“We have already organized several women sports leadership seminars for schools sports teachers and they have been very successful,” she said. Mwasanga said that those who had the opportunity to attend the seminars have already used the knowledge to organise sports activities and now it is time to bring them together to show what they have achieved.

She, however, said that the programme does not only involve them in sports, but it also aims at empowering girls and women to take over leadership roles in the society through sports. The International Inspiration programme is under the British Council and National Sports Council.

By MBONILE BURTON, Tanzania Daily News

National University of Rwanda continues to dominate the national men’s volleyball league after winning their last two games of the fifth phase at the weekend.

NUR beat Lycee de Nyanza and Kigali Volleyball Club respectively on Sunday at NPC Indoor Stadium to move to 46 points.

In the other matches, Lycee de Nyanza beat KVC 3-0 to maintain their place in the top four, while in Christ Roi lost to Rusumo High School 3-2, Rusumo also beat St Joseph 3-0.

Elsewhere, INATEK were awarded three points after Group Scolaire de Butare did not show up at the venue without any explanation. The remaining league matches will be played this coming weekend when Group Scoraile de Butare take on Rusumo High School at the latter’s ground.

NUR lead the league with 46 points, three points ahead of second-placed IATEK, defending champions APR are in third position with 38 points, while Lycee de Nyanza occupy the fourth spot with 36 points.

The top four teams in both the men and women’s category will contest in the playoff tournament slated for October 5-6.

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

For the second time this year a golf tournament at the Arusha Gymkhana Club (AGC) has turned into a family business after Jason Frisby and his father Tony displayed excellent skills to win Division A’s top two prizes over the weekend.

Jason continued from where he left last week when he emerged the August Mug champion to win the Division A top prize after returning eight-under 44 Stable Ford points in the 18 holes event.

Playing off handicap-11 Jason showed everyone that he is now seriously back to golf after winning the Division’s prize for the second consecutive week. Last week he overcame a stiff challenge to clinch the Division A title after carding level par 72 nett at the 18 holes stroke play.

Jason had a very good day as he dropped only two shots with two bogies at the front nine, while attaining two birdies and three bogies at the back nine. AGC Chairman Tony Frisby, also handicap- 11, who was the June Mug champion, came second to his son this time with an impressive score of five-under 41 points. His handicap was also reduced to 10.

This is the second time this year the two Frisbys are taking home two top prizes at the division after doing so at the March Mug tournament when Jason won the title after he carded 71 nett and his father finished second with 72 nett.

AGC Secretary Richard Gomes collected level-36 to settle in third position. Jay Nathwan, handicap-20, returned 38 points to finish Division B top prize while Hiten Nathwani, handicap-24, who had the same was runner-up on countback. Amir Somji, handicap-16, finished third with 37 points.

After allowing Shakir Bandali to end his Division C dominance in the July event, Aayush Nathwani, playing off handicap-26, had no problem recapturing the top prize this time around as his rivals did not turn up. Nathwani returned 39 points and his new handicap is 25.

Playing off handicap-25 lady captain Zainab Laicer returned an impressive score of 40 points to clinch the ladies to prize and had her handicap reduced to 23. Madina Iddi, handicap-3, was second with 35 points.

Source Tanzania Daily News

Uganda has submitted application to host this year’s Zone V FIVB World Championship Qualifiers scheduled for November, joining Rwanda which was until recently the sole candidate, it has emerged.

Rwanda volleyball team will face strong contest in the Zone V tournament due in November. The New Times / Courtesy.

Sadik Nasiwu, the Uganda Volleyball Federation boss, confirmed the development to the media last week.

“We want to host the Zone V tournament and give a chance to fans to enjoy that level of volleyball in their own backyard,” he said.

He said they had already submitted their bid to the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB). “We are in the process of informing the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB) of our interest and we shall wait and see what their reply is on this matter.”

It had previously been reported that Rwanda had almost won the hosting rights after it successfully hosted the sub-zonal tournament in June, this year.

Gustave Nkurunziza, the Rwanda Volleyball Federation chairperson, previously told journalists that CAVB had given Rwanda the green light to go ahead with preparations for the zonal showpiece.

Meanwhile, other reports indicate that Kenya is also interested in hosting the tournament which will determine the two teams from Zone V to compete in the last stage of the competition before the continental tournament next year.

The zonal tournament will attract five regional countries, namely Burundi, Egypt, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.

In the June sub-zonal event in Kigali, Rwanda finished second behind Egypt.

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

Rwanda will host the 2013 African Taekwondo Championship slated for November 22 to 26.

Local Taekwondo players exhibiting their skills during the East African tournament early this year at Amahoro stadium. The New Times / File.

The decision was reached at the African Taekwondo Union (AFTU) general assembly in Alexandria, Egypt on September 9.

Rwanda beat Egypt and Congo Brazzaville to the hosting rights.

The Rwanda Taekwondo Federation Secretary General Placide Bagabo said, “We are really pleased with the decision. It’s a privilege to host such a big tournament.”

“We are going to prepare for the championship in the best possible way,” added Bagabo.

The games will take place at NPC gymnasium in Kigali.

In a curtain raiser event, Rwanda will host a regional tournament dubbed ‘Ambassador’s Cup’ from September 12 to 14, which will attract teams from Uganda, Kenya, Burundi and DR Congo.

This is the third time that an East African country will be hosting the continental tournament. Kenya hosted the 1987 and 1998 editions in Nairobi.

Last year’s edition was held in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Taekwondo is a young but fast-growing sports discipline in Rwanda.

The sport was officially introduced in the country in April 2011 after which the country went on to organise several local and regional tournaments.

Rwanda hosted the East Africa Taekwondo Championships in March and then the Mt. Gorilla Open in June.

The country also sent a four-member squad to at the World Taekwondo Championships in Puebla, Mexico.

Rwanda is currently ranked sixth on the African continent and among the top 40 teams in the world.

By Richard Bishumba,The New Times

Nine countries will be battling it out in the Africa Nations Cup women volleyball tournament, which starts on Saturday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

Defending champions Kenya will be under pressure from home fans to retain the title they won two years ago.

Kenya, who beat Algeria in the 2011 finals at Africa Nazarene University gymnasium, face a litmus test against powerhouses Tunisia, Cameroon, Algeria and Egypt. Other countries expected for the Nairobi battle are Senegal, DRC, Ethiopia and Gabon.

National team coach David Lung’ahu named a strong squad of 12 players, who will be flying the Kenyan flag high in the quest to retain their title.

Lung’ahu named veteran Kenya Prisons player Bracksides Agala as team Captain.

The team however, expressed displeasure over lack of government support.

“We have been successful just like our athletics and rugby colleagues. But the government has been reluctant to support us. There have been no official visiting our training camp,” said Agala.

She also expressed concern over unpaid allowances and failure to secure accommodation at Kasarani after Sports Stadia Management Board (SSMB) denied them use of the facility for lack of cash.

“The team is perfectly blended with more experienced and young talented players. With a team like this we are confident of retaining the title,” said Charles Nyaberi, the Kenya volleyball Federation (KVF) first vice chairman.

Nyaberi was however, disappointed to announce that both Uganda and Botswana made last minute withdrawal from the week-long tourney.

However, their withdrawal will not water down the elvel of competition as the remaining nine countries lead in the rankings.

Tunisia challenge

Kenya face stiff competition from Tunisia, who jetted in the country on Wednesday  to have three days to acclamatise.

Another bigwig, Tunisia is known for having produced some of the finest women’s players for both national and club sides in the 90s. However, their youthful side is carving a niche and ready to wrestle the title from Kenya.

The memories are still fresh for the Kenyan team in All Africa games in 2011 and will be seeking Cameroun’s scalp after they spoilt their party beating them in the semis.

Cameroun, Senegal and Tunisia are already in the country to give themselves more acclimatisation time before the tournament serves of on Saturday.

By ELIZABETH MBURUGU, The Standard

Six teams would take part in CAVB African Cup of Nations tournament scheduled to start at Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani from Sunday.

The teams that confirmed participation in the annual show are Kenya, Senegal, Tunisia, Algeria, Cameroonand Egypt.

Countries that had earlier shown interest in featuring at the event but failed to report in Nairobi include Uganda, Ethiopia, DR Congo and Gabon.

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Secretary General Evans Wasike said the competition would now be played on round robin format. “As for now we don’t expect any other team to come for the tournament,” he said in Nairobi on Friday.

Kenya head coach David Lung’aho said the changes in number of participating teams would not affect his gameplan.

“The presence of teams like Uganda and DR Congo does not make any difference since we already have the best teams in Africa here,” said Lung’aho at Kasaranion Friday.

Lung’aho said that the competition would be even more competitive considering that it would be played on league format.

“The matches would be very competitive since every team knows that any slip-up would be costly.

Our intention is to win all our matches and avoid conceding sets to stand a good chance of winning the tournament,” he said.

Lung’aho said that he would treat all matches with same attitude since participating teams appear to be of equal strength.

“If you look at the caliber of teams in the tournament, most of them have at least one major achievement in continental volleyball,” he said.

The teams that confirmed participation in the annual show are Kenya, Senegal, Tunisia, Algeria, Cameroonand Egypt.

Countries that had earlier shown interest in featuring at the event but failed to report in Nairobi include Uganda, Ethiopia, DR Congo and Gabon.

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Secretary General Evans Wasike said the competition would now be played on round robin format. “As for now we don’t expect any other team to come for the tournament,” he said in Nairobi on Friday.

Kenya head coach David Lung’aho said the changes in number of participating teams would not affect his gameplan.

“The presence of teams like Uganda and DR Congo does not make any difference since we already have the best teams in Africa here,” said Lung’aho at Kasaranion Friday.

Lung’aho said that the competition would be even more competitive considering that it would be played on league format.

“The matches would be very competitive since every team knows that any slip-up would be costly.

Our intention is to win all our matches and avoid conceding sets to stand a good chance of winning the tournament,” he said.

Lung’aho said that he would treat all matches with same attitude since participating teams appear to be of equal strength.

“If you look at the caliber of teams in the tournament, most of them have at least one major achievement in continental volleyball,” he said.

The team played high quality matches against sides like Turkey, Japan, Thailand, USA, Serbia, Netherlands, Italy and Dominican Republic.

Algeria however did not win a set after they lost all the matches in straight sets.

By OSCAR PILIPILI, The Standard

Africa Volleybal Confederation has awarded Rwanda rights to host the Zone 5 World Championship Qualifiers, slated for November 25 to December 1.

Local clubs APR and INATEK, seen here playing in a past tournament, will provide the bulk of players for the national team. Saturday Sport/T. Kisambira.

The decision was reached at by both the International Volleyball Federation and the Africa Volleyball governing board, CAVB.

According to the Rwanda Volleyball Federation’s Secretary General, Christian Hatumimana, CAVB chose Rwanda despite Uganda and Kenya also bidding to host the event.

“We are happy to announce that we have been awarded the rights to host the event and we hope the tournament will be successful on and off the courts,” said the official.

He added, “This shows that both CAVB and FIVB have faith in Rwanda to organise international competitions and we will do everything possible not to disappoint.”

The Uganda and Kenya Volleyball Federations had shown interest in organising the event.

Rwanda will be looking to make the most of home advantage when they host Zone 5 Championship after hosting the Sub Zone this year in June.

Five teams Rwanda, Egypt, Kenya, Uganda and Burundi will compete in Zone V Qualifiers, where the top three will go for the final round, which will determine the top three, who will represent Africa in World Championships.

For the first time, FIVB have granted Africa three places in the men’s category and two places in women’s group at the world’s biggest volleyball event.

The Rwanda men’s team will start trainings later this month. The team will be under the tutelage of ex-Kenyan international Paul Bitok, who will be assisted by Kigali Volleyball Club coach Jean Marie Nsengiyumva.

By Peter Kamasa,The New Times

About 11 clubs are gearing up for this year’s Dar es Salaam Regional Clubs Championship scheduled to take off on September 21 at Ukonga Prisons in the city.

Dar es Salaam Amateur Darts Association (DADA) Secretary General Lambert Rwihula told the ‘Sunday News’ over the weekend that preparations are in top gear to stage the tournament which will be held in two different weekends.

Rwihula said that the first weekend is September 21- 22 and the second is September 28-29.

He named the Dar es Salaam-based clubs which will battled it out for top honours as defending champions Police Barracks, Upanga Darts Club, Ibukoni Segerea, Kimanga, Kashudo and Lugalo Darts Club.

Also in the list are Way Point of Ukonga who will be featuring for the first time, Kawe Garden, Mbezi Beach, Magomeni and hosts Magereza Ukonga.

Rwihula added that the tournament is sponsored by his association and hosts Ukonga club, but appealled to well-wishers to come forward and assist DADA.

“We are still looking for sponsors as we want to give the winners good prizes. If we fail to secure one we shall continue with our plans because we really need this tournament which is aimed at promoting the game in the region and the country at large,” said Rwehula.

He added that overall club and individual winner and runners-up for both men’s and women’s categories will get trophies and cash prizes. The same will apply to singles and doubles events.

“The overall club winner will take home 400,000/-, the first runner-up will pocket 200,000/- and 100,000/- will go to the second runner-up, while overall single and double men’s winners will get 100,000/- and 50,000/- will go to the runners-up,” he said.

Rwihula said that in the women’s single overall winner and runners up will foot home 50,000 and 20,000 respectively.

He further said that at this year’s tournament each club will be represented by one team unlike the previous year when clubs were allowed to field more than one team.

“We ordered each club to bring one best team with the aim of making the championship more competitive and getting a deserving champion.

By MBONILE BURTON, Tanzania Daily News

Floyd Mayweather further strengthened his claim to greatness with a one-sided defeat of Saul Alvarez in Las Vegas.

Alvarez started in cautious fashion and was picked off by Mayweather when he tried to apply pressure

In doing so the 36-year-old American secured the WBC and WBA light-middleweight titles and stretched his unbeaten professional run to 45 fights.

The judges scored the fight 114-114, 116-112, 117-111, although the announcement of CJ Ross’s drawn card was met with stunned silence.

Mayweather was never threatened, making his Mexican foe look ordinary at times.

“It is about skills,” said five-weight world champion Mayweather. “I came out tonight and showed my skills.

“I just listened to my corner, listened to my dad [Floyd Sr, who is also his trainer]. My dad had a brilliant game-plan and I went out there and got the job done.”

“I didn’t know how to get him, it’s extremely simple,” said Alvarez, who was previously unbeaten in 43 fights.

“We tried to catch him but he’s a great fighter, very intelligent. There was no solution for him.”

Mayweather pockets upwards of $45m (£26.1m) for his efforts, a world record purse, while the fight is likely to go down as the most lucrative pay-per-view show in history.

With tickets at the MGM Grand changing hands for a reported $30,000 (£18,900), many expected the 23-year-old champion would at least push Mayweather close.

However, such was Mayweather’s defensive mastery that it never caught fire as a contest, with Alvarez spending much of the fight either hitting arms or swinging at fresh air.

The first round, which Mayweather won courtesy of little more than a couple of snappy jabs, was a sign of things to come, with the second panning out in much the same fashion.

When Alvarez tried to apply some educated pressure in the fourth, Mayweather made the most of the openings, getting through with some typically incisive combinations.

Alvarez turned to rough-house tactics in the sixth but, as Britain’s Ricky Hatton learned when he was beaten by Mayweather in 2007, the American is equally adept on the inside.

Mayweather got through with a vicious uppercut in the seventh, by which time Alvarez looked for all the world like a beaten man.

The Mexican might have nicked rounds eight, nine and 10 as Mayweather took a breather but the American was back on his toes down the stretch, easily getting the better of the final two rounds.

Despite witnessing another Mayweather masterclass, Ross – who courted controversy by awarding Timothy Bradley a victory over Manny Pacquiao last year  – somehow thought Alvarez had done enough to earn a draw.

But sanity prevailed, meaning the Mayweather gravy train rumbles on – he has four fights remaining on the reported $200m contract he signed with American network Showtime in February.

Mayweather has now made $73m (£46m) for two fights in 2013 – he easily beat fellow American Robert Guerrero in May – making him the highest-paid athlete in the world for the second successive year.

On the MGM Grand undercard, Danny Garcia , who knocked out Britain’s Amir Khan in 2012, was awarded a split-decision victory over Argentina’s Lucas Matthysse.

Big-hitting Matthysse was the favourite to take Garcia’s WBC and WBA light-welterweight belts but was outboxed by his American opponent.

Former British light-welterweight champion Ashley Theophane was also beaten on a split decision in his first fight under Mayweather’s promotional umbrella.

The 33-year-old Londoner put up a good show against experienced Mexican Pablo Cesar Cano but was ultimately outclassed.

BBC Sport