Racing Toward the Finish Line

At Kwa Watoto School (KWS) there is no outdoor space for Physical Education (PE) class, so the children walk to the Salvation Army grounds where there is room to run. However, to get ready for Sports Day on November 13, the children spent one day of preparation at the larger and better-suited Stima grounds, property of the Kenya Power Company. Just the walk to and from the Stima field required a good deal of endurance and athletic ability!The 25-minute walk to the field, in the mid-day sun, smack-dab on the Equator, was about all the PE - physical exertion - the youngest students could endure. Upper primary classes walked along the Thika superhighway to get to the Stima grounds. The younger classes, accompanied by many teachers and helpers, walked single-file through narrow passageways, over sewers, and up a hill to get to the field. All were warmed-up for the day’s activities upon arrival!Part of the day’s activities was to identify which athletic categories each child would take part. The events require differing levels of physical ability and include soccer, track and field events, sack racing, and egg & spoon relay. The students worked and played hard during the trials and were happy with their athletic placements.At the end of the 2-hour practice, everyone walked back to KWS hot, tired, and hungry, but with smiles on their faces. Back at KWS, the children quenched their hunger and thirst, and the youngest students enjoyed an extended afternoon nap!Most children in the Mathare slum do not experience the many educational privileges our students enjoy. KWS children are fed in body, mind, and spirit because of the generosity of our financial partners. By the grace of God, you make it possible for our boys and girls to have hope as their lives are transformed in the midst of extreme and cruel poverty. Thank you for your faithful support!As you read this article, Sports Day and the last day of the 2014 school year are just a few days away. Please keep teachers and children in your prayers this week. We will update you soon on the results of this much anticipated day.Also, please pray that the 6-week break that begins November 14 will be a time of rest and refreshment for staff and students. For our students, pray for safety and provision of daily needs, especially food. Pray also for journey mercies and protection on the roads for those who will travel over the holidays.Gratefully,~ The eduKenya & Kwa Watoto Team