Medical team steps up heat protection for cyclists at CAC Africa Championships in Kisumu

Organisers of the 2026 Confederation of African Cycling (CAC) Africa Championships in Kisumu have introduced cooler boxes, ice bags and cold baths to protect riders from the lakeside city’s hot weather during the five-day competition.

The championships, which run from Wednesday, October 21 to Sunday, October 25, will see cyclists compete across various categories, with organisers putting in place medical measures to ensure the safety of all participants.

The event’s head of medical services, Dr Jessicah Shiraku, said the medical team was prepared to manage heat-related challenges along the course.

“Kisumu is a hot place, and we need to take care of all competitors along the course. We have tried to make sure that our athletes are well hydrated, and we have also organised cold baths just in case someone feels too hot,” said Shiraku.

Kenya is hosting the continental championships for the third consecutive time, following previous editions in Eldoret in 2024 and Diani, Kwale County, in 2025.

Shiraku recalled the challenges riders faced during last year’s championships in Diani, where high temperatures affected some competitors.

“Remember last year in Diani, some riders were fainting, but here we have cooler boxes to help manage the heat. We also have ambulances following them and plenty of ice bags to take care of the athletes,” she said.

The experienced medic said a team of 20 medical personnel would be deployed during the championships, supported by three ambulances equipped with medical staff, including nurses, physiotherapists and doctors.

She added that the medical team had assessed the course and was prepared to respond quickly to any emergencies that might arise during the races.

“We have assessed the route, which is very nice, with only one hill. We will be ready to respond to any emergencies using our ambulances,” she said.

Shiraku urged cyclists to remain hydrated and avoid pushing themselves beyond their physical limits, adding that doctors would follow the races in chase cars to ensure that fatigued riders received prompt medical attention.

“Athletes need to stay hydrated and should not push beyond their limits. We shall be following all the riders with doctors in chase cars, and if any athlete becomes fatigued, they will be attended to quickly,” she said.

Beyond heat-related risks, the medical team is also keen to prevent injuries caused by interference from members of the public along the race route.

Shiraku recalled incidents during the Diani championships when pedestrians crossed the course unexpectedly, resulting in injuries to cyclists.

“In Diani, we had unexpected injuries when non-participants crossed the course. Here, we have tried to make sure that we do not have such injuries,” she said.

The organisers are therefore banking on the enhanced medical arrangements and improved course management to ensure the safety of riders as Kenya welcomes cyclists from across the continent for the five-day championships.

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