Ashley Ongong’a Makes History, Qualifies For Youth Olympic Games

Kenyan skier Ashley Tshanda Ongong’a has earned a coveted quota place to represent Kenya at the upcoming Winter Youth Olympics Gangwon 2024 in South Korea.

The 16-year-old achieved this milestone through her impressive International Ski Federation (FIS) ranking in the women’s Youth Olympic Games quota allocation lists as of December 18, 2023.

NOC-K, acting as the National Ski Federation, played a crucial role in facilitating Tshanda’s journey. With dual Kenyan and Italian citizenship, Ashley, born in Italy, chose to represent Kenya internationally. Trained under coach Francesco Silverio at Bachmann Sport College – Tarvisio in Italy, she stands on the cusp of making history as the first African and Kenyan female cross-country skier to qualify for the Winter Youth Olympic Games.

NOC-K, recognizing the importance of global representation, provided essential financial and administrative support for Tshanda’s participation in FIS races, allowing her to accumulate ranking points for the qualification.

NOC-K Secretary General Francis Mutuku expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting athletes abroad, emphasizing the significance of national representation.

Tshanda’s achievements include numerous victories in cross-country ski titles, regional and national championships, and commendable performances in international ski competitions.

As Kenya diversifies its support for athletes on the global stage, Tshanda’s qualification underscores the nation’s growing presence in winter sports.