Nakuru is gearing up for a thrilling weekend as the Great Rift 10-aside tournament returns to the Nakuru Athletics Club (NAC), igniting the town with rugby excitement and festive energy.

Fans can expect adrenaline-filled matches on the field, a lively atmosphere for children and families on the sidelines, and an unmatched party vibe at the entertainment village, making it more than just a tournament but a full Easter weekend experience.

Tournament Director of the Great Rift 10s Harry Mwangi has called on rugby fans across the country to turn up in large numbers for this year’s edition, describing it as one of the most prestigious events in Kenya’s rugby calendar.

Now in its 33rd edition since its inception in 1990, the tournament has grown into the biggest 10-aside rugby event in the country, consistently attracting top clubs and thousands of fans to Nakuru.

Mwangi notes that this year’s tournament returns to its traditional Easter slot, giving fans an opportunity to fully enjoy the action across the long holiday weekend.

"The competition will kick off on Good Friday with age-grade and women’s matches, before the main men’s fixtures take center stage on Saturday and Sunday," he says.

Additionally, a total of 11 age-grade teams will be in action, featuring six ladies’ teams and five boys’ teams competing across the under-18, under-14 and under-12 categories, highlighting the tournament’s commitment to nurturing grassroots talent.

Defending champions Menengai Oilers headline the tournament as they return to defend the title they won during the 32nd edition, setting the stage for a highly competitive showdown. In the men’s category, a strong lineup of teams has already confirmed participation, including host Nakuru RFC, Egerton Wasps, KCA University, Eagles Rugby, Strathmore Leos, Stallions Rugby, Cooperative University, Mean Machine, Multimedia University, Ravin Rugby, KMTC Kisumu, KMTC Nakuru, Rift Valley National Polytechnic, CUEA Monks, Machakos University and TUM Marines Rugby.

The director says the turnout has already surpassed expectations, with 18 teams expressing interest, and noted that the final pools will be communicated ahead of kickoff. He adds that preparations are complete, with the grounds in excellent condition and a vibrant fan experience lined up, including a fully-fledged entertainment village offering food, drinks and social activities.

Nakuru County Sports CECM Elga Ryaga welcomed visitors to the county, assuring them of adequate security and proper arrangements throughout the event. She noted the county is proud to host another major sporting event, coming just weeks after the successful World Rally Championship.

Nakuru County Sports CECM Elga Ryaga during an interview on the upcoming Great Rift 10 Aside tournament happening from April 3 to 5 flunked by Nakuru Athletics Club Vice Chairman Godfrey Mugo and Tournament Director of the Great Rift 10s Harry Mwangi

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

She emphasized that security teams have been deployed to guarantee the safety of all attendees, including children participating in the age-grade matches and called for fans and vendors to adhere to provided regulations.

"There will be strict regulations, including no alcohol sales during the under-18 matches on Friday, and urged attendees to maintain discipline and enjoy the games responsibly," she adds.

Nakuru Athletics Club Vice Chairman Godfrey Mugo says this year’s tournament is particularly special as it coincides with the club’s centenary celebrations, marking 100 years since its establishment in 1926.

“We are delighted to host this edition as part of our 100-year celebrations. This tournament has been part of our identity for over three decades,” he says.

Mugo welcomed teams and fans from across the country, describing NAC as the home of rugby in the region and promising an unforgettable experience for all.

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Excitement as Great Rift 10-aside rugby tournament returns to Nakuru

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Purity Kinuthia