The International Canoe Federation has donated two canoe slalom boats to Kenya to build on the success of athletes who competed at this month’s world championships in Slovakia.

Athletes Samuel Muturi and Levis Karanja returned to Kenya after the world championships with a K1 and a C1 slalom boat, which they will use to help grow the sport in their community.

Muturi and Karanja have both participated in ICF development camps but have struggled with event preparation and training because of a lack of resources in Kenya. ICF sport development manager Sebastian Cuattrin said the boats will be put to good use in Kenya.

“We have seen the enthusiasm of Samuel and Peter at our development camps, and we know that with access to more equipment they will continue to improve,” Cuattrin said.

“They have a very dedicated slalom coach in Titus Mukundi, and now they have two more boats to help give them, and other paddlers who we are sure will join the sport, the opportunity to spend more time on the water.”

The interim chairman of the Kenyan Rowing and Canoe Federation, Richard Olakhi, said the boats will help canoe slalom grow in his country.

“The boats are currently stored at Sagana club grounds where the duo train from,” he said.

“I believe this kayaks will go a long way in enhancing their performances and bring more athletes on board.”