Meru University secured the championship title at the inaugural Mt. Kenya Badminton Championship, held over the weekend in Nanyuki Town, Laikipia County. The tournament, organized under the Boom and Thrive Campus Series, showcased the growing appeal of badminton among university athletes.

A Rising Sport in the Mt. Kenya Region

The two-day competition brought together teams from seven universities across the Mt Kenya region. Meru University defeated Chuka University two sets to one in a fiercely contested final.

Individual Performances Shine

Chuka University’s Kennedy Munene was crowned the men’s singles champion, defeating Ian Kimtai two sets to one. Meru University’s Beryl Allie dominated the women’s category, beating Gigi Wambui to claim the ladies’ singles title.

I am excited to participate in this championship. The Mt Kenya region has lacked quality badminton courts where players can train and showcase their talent. Winning here is a massive motivation. Kennedy Munene, Chuka University

This event is helping grow sports talent in the Mt Kenya region. For many years, badminton has been ignored. We thank the organisers for giving us a platform to showcase our abilities. Beryl Allie, Meru University

Boom and Thrive’s Commitment to Badminton

The championship is already attracting corporate sponsorship, with organizers aiming to elevate badminton’s profile alongside established Kenyan sports like athletics, rugby and boxing. BoomandThrive Sportshub is actively involved in badminton coaching for ages 5 and up, offering group and one-on-one sessions in Nanyuki.

Tournament Results

• 1st Place: Meru University
• 2nd Place: Chuka University
• 3rd Place: Kirinyaga University
• 4th Place: Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
• Men’s Singles Winner: Ken Munene
• Ladies’ Singles Winner: Gigi Wairimu

The event similarly featured teams including Nanyuki Ironclads, URF Shuttlers, MYSA Thunderbolts, Thika Club, Raptors, Falcons, and Thunders, with over 200 players participating.