Atete Benzinge and Team Kenya shine in Marrakech motocross

Kenyan rider Atete Benzinge delivered a standout performance at the FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations (MXOAN), held in Marrakech, Morocco. She finished third in the WMX Class, trailing behind Zambia's Leah Heygate and South Africa's Mienke Cawood. Despite being the only Kenyan participant in the WMX category, her efforts helped secure a strong showing for the team.

Overall, Team Kenya celebrated three podium finishes, including two in the MX50 and MX65 categories. Chiara Hatanga placed second in the MX50 female class, finishing behind Uganda's Hellena Ainomugisha. In MX1, Kenyan team captain Apollo Mbuki came in ninth, while Moroccan rider Saad Soulmani dominated the class, winning all three heats.

In the MX Vets/Masters race, Fredrick Yongo represented Kenya and finished 12th, with South Africa's Craig Cruger taking the top spot. South African riders also dominated the MX50 category, with Joshua-Zion Naude claiming victory. The best-performing Kenyan in this class was Jeremy Hawi Opudo, who placed sixth.

In the MX65 class, Kigen Mutuma was Kenya's top finisher, securing sixth place. Other Kenyan riders included Dylan Hatanga in seventh, Jedd Hatanga in eighth, and Lemaiyan Muraya Mugo in ninth.

Kenya finished fourth overall in the event, with Uganda securing second place with 479 points behind South Africa’s winning 586 points, while hosts Morocco placed third with 447 points.

Meanwhile, 10-year-old Zimbabwean rider Victor Nyamupfukudza made waves in the 65cc class, securing an overall second-place finish behind South Africa’s Ohan Graven. The MXOAN brought together over 200 riders from 10 countries, delivering thrilling competition and a showcase of talent across various motocross categories.