Prinsloo 7s: Celebrating Rugby Legends and the Spirit of Nakuru.
As we gear up for the third round of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit, rugby enthusiasts from all over Kenya are eagerly anticipating the Prinsloo 7s, which will be held at the Nakuru Athletic Club from the 4th to the 6th of August 2023. This year marks the fifteenth edition of the tournament, a fitting tribute to the late Pete Walter Prinsloo, a rugby enthusiast of South African origin, who played a significant role in the revamping and development of rugby in Nakuru. Pete Walter Prinsloo’s journey in the world of rugby began when he moved to Kenya from South Africa. Although details about his early life remain somewhat elusive, there is no doubt that his impact on the rugby community in Nakuru was profound. He devoted a considerable part of his life to promote and nurture the sport he loved, and his efforts were instrumental in establishing a strong rugby culture in the region. Tragically, Prinsloo faced health challenges that put his determination to the test. He battled diabetes complications, which eventually led to the amputation of two of his limbs. However, his love for rugby remained unwavering, and even in the face of immense physical challenges, he continued to actively involve himself in the sport, using a wheelchair to move around. Prinsloo’s indomitable spirit and passion for rugby became an inspiration to many aspiring players and fans alike. His courage in the face of adversity was a symbol of resilience and determination, leaving a lasting impression on the rugby community. In honor of his legacy, the Prinsloo 7s tournament was established. Each year, teams from across Kenya gather at the Nakuru Athletic Club to compete in this prestigious event, celebrating the spirit of rugby and commemorating the legacy of Pete Walter Prinsloo. The tournament has become a symbol of the power of love for the game and the strength to overcome challenges, both on and off the field. Among the teams vying for victory at this year’s Prinsloo 7s, Mwamba leads the pack as the most successful team in the tournament’s history, having secured five titles. They won the inaugural editions in 2007 and 2008, and then added more titles in 2010, 2011, and 2019. Following closely behind is KCB, with four titles, including a remarkable three-peat from 2012 to 2014. Other successful teams in the tournament’s history include Homeboyz, Nakuru, Menengai Oilers, and Strathmore Leos, each having lifted the prestigious trophy on one or two occasions. Apart from the thrilling action on the field, the Prinsloo 7s also features a division two competition. Kabarak University, as the top seed in this division, will battle it out with other aspiring teams, hoping to secure promotion to the Christie 7s division one competition. The Prinsloo 7s promises to be an exhilarating and heartwarming event, not just for rugby fans but for all those who believe in the power of passion, resilience, and leaving a lasting legacy. Tickets are now on sale, with regular tickets priced at Ksh 500 per day and VIP tickets at Ksh 3000 for Saturday and Sunday. As we gather at the Nakuru Athletic Club, let us remember the man who inspired this tournament, Pete Walter Prinsloo, whose love for rugby knew no bounds. Let us celebrate the sport he cherished, and may the Prinsloo 7s continue to honor his memory for many years to come. Let the games begin!
