Kapcherop Raiders are the winners of the second edition of “Gavana Wa Raia” football tournament.
The raid for goals at Iten Sports ground was not a smooth ride since their competitors Kipsaina from Keiyo South staged a bruising battle that ended in 1-1 draw before it was eventually determined by penalties.
Kipsaina was punished in the last minutes of the second half for failing to hold a 1-0 lead.
Raiders converted three penalties to ensure the cup remained in Marakwet West Sub County making themselves the second winners of the coveted Ksh1 million prize. Kipsaina wasted three.
Alfred Koilege, the Raiders team manager while expressing his joy for a successful mission said his team was prepared for a win.
“We dedicate this win to our fans who have stood with us. On behalf of the team, I would like to thank the Governor for giving us an opportunity to showcase our talent and win Sh.1 million. I promise that we will prudently utilise the money,” said Koilege.
Last year, Emkew FC from Moiben-Kuserwo, in Marakwet West beat Kimuron FC from Keiyo North.
Kapchebau FC from Marakwet East and Kipsoen FC (Keiyo North) were among the teams that made it to the finals this year.
Football fans witness ‘Gavana wa Raia’ finals
The lively competition lighted Iten Town on Sunday with football fans turning up in large numbers equivalent to a political rally.
The tournament sponsor Governor Wisely Rotich witnessed the game in company of guests including Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi, Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek alongside West Pokot Deputy Governor Robert Komolle and his County Assembly Speaker Frederick Plimo.
There was also a representation from Nandi County led by Assembly Speaker Philemon Melly.
Other guests included sports personality Mcdonald Mariga and FKF presidential candidate Hussein Mohammed.
Governor Rotich said the intention of the tournament was to foster harmony and peaceful coexistence among the communities beside nurturing talent.
The governor congratulated the winners alongside all the grassroot teams which took part in the competition.
Business boom in Iten
Traders in Iten town recorded booming businesses during the day with hoteliers and those in the transport sector, leaving nothing to chance.
Matatu fares from Iten to Eldoret in the evening, which is usually between Ksh100 to Ksh150 was raised to Ksh200.
Local artistes arap Uria, Gogo Small led a team of content creators in entertainment during the competition contest.
