Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) and Strathmore University have secured six relay squad berths in the Open Lanes Varsity Invitational finals after progressing through a competitive two-day knockout stage.The two universities will join Kenyatta University in the grand finale on October 3, 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium, where the leading university runners will compete for the championship title.##NAJAVA_MECA_9968865##The remaining qualification places will be decided next week, with teams from JKUAT, the University of Nairobi and Riara University set to battle for spots in the final qualification round.Beyond the championship, the competition will offer four standout student-athletes an opportunity to earn an all-expenses-paid trip to South Africa to compete in the country's elite running circuit.The initiative will give the students an opportunity to compete in a different environment, experience South Africa's running culture and gain exposure beyond the university circuit.Motsepe opens door to three AFCON 2027 opening ceremoniesSpeaking during the knockout events, On Director of Africa Navalayo Osembo said the competition had delivered the intensity expected as teams battled for places in the finals.“We are seeing the competitions come to life as more teams secure their places at the finals. The energy and competitiveness we have experienced so far is what we had hoped for, and as we close this phase next week for the remaining varsities, we expect the race to the finals to be even more intense.”Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsOn has continued to strengthen its presence in Kenya through partnerships with runners and running communities, including We Run Nairobi, as it seeks to connect with a younger generation that increasingly views running as a sport, lifestyle and form of self-expression.In 2025, the brand partnered on a community run at Windsor Golf Club that attracted more than 500 runners, highlighting the growing popularity of accessible social running experiences in Nairobi.STARS ABROAD: Ochieng bags another assist in Spain as Anyembe shines in DenmarkThe company has also partnered with Kenyan athletes including Hellen Obiri, Patrick Kipngeno and Mercy Chepngeno, supporting athletes at different stages of their careers.Its African athlete portfolio was further expanded with the signing of South African 400m star and World U20 champion Lythe Pillay, who became the first professional athlete from the country to join On's global athlete roster.As On expands its footprint across Africa, the Open Lanes Varsity Invitational forms part of its broader push to build an ecosystem around movement and storytelling while creating opportunities for young athletes to compete, connect and gain visibility.Kenya's established sporting culture, expanding digital reach and youthful market also make it an important market in the brand's continued growth across Africa.Wafalme Stars out of World Championships slot contention with defeat to Algeria
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