NAIROBI, June 29 (Xinhua) -- The Kenyan government on Thursday assured the world that the East Africa state is ready to host over 150 countries and regions to this year's World Under-18 Championships despite the withdrawal of some athletes.
With just two weeks before the teams congregate in Nairobi in what will be the last of the championships, Kenya's internal security cabinet secretary Joseph Nkaissery has moved to assure the world, the country is ready for the over 2,000 participants.
"Security should be the least of your worries. We have done everything to make it as comfortable as possible to the visitors, teams and the fans," said Nkaissery.
"Over 150 countries and regions will feel safe here. We are urging the world to come and enjoy the games."
Poland will be the first country to arrive for the championships while China is hoping to play a prominent role in the absence of U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Britain and Japan who will be giving the event a bye.
China has a team of 51 athletes led by long jumper Gong Luying, javelin thrower Liu Zhekai, and race walkers Zhang Yao and Zhang Xiaole.
Host Kenya, who will be eyeing their third overall title, have named a strong squad of 60 athletes who will take part in all events, except the pole vault. Kenya won overall titles in Poland (1999) and Italy in 2007.
The 10th Edition of the World Under-18 year Championship will take place in Nairobi from July 12-16.
The IAAF World U18 Championships provides a vision of the future personalities and top performers of the sport. It will also be the final edition of the championships as the IAAF will move its focus for the under-18 age group on to continental championships. Enditem
