Kakamega Homeboyz keeper set for arduous cycling challenge to Nairobi on Christmas Eve

Kakamega Homeboyz goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe will embark on a bold personal challenge on Tuesday, 23 December, cycling from Kakamega to Nairobi in a two-day endurance journey he describes as a reminder of his strength, resilience, and ability to push beyond life’s difficult moments.

Mukolwe, who has spent a decade in the FKF Premier League, says this journey is about confronting discomfort, reinforcing mental toughness, and proving to himself that he can rise above the storms life brings on and off the pitch.

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Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the Homeboyz shot-stopper said the decision to take on the 360km challenge is rooted in a deeply personal mission.

The ride will serve as a symbolic expression of perseverance.

“I want to encourage and remind myself that I can push beyond limits in both the uncomfortable and comfortable moments. Life isn’t easy, challenges are many but this is to remind myself that regardless of the storms that come, you can persevere and you’re capable of much more than you can imagine," Mukolwe offers.

The keeper was candid about the weight athletes, especially footballers in Kenya carry. From financial struggle to job insecurity and public scrutiny, he says footballers endure a unique pressure that requires immense mental strength.

“For an African man, especially a Kenyan footballer, pushing through uncomfortable situations isn’t easy. We struggle with money, family pressures, health issues, and even football itself,” he said.

The criticism faced by goalkeepers has also shaped his outlook.

“People say Kenya doesn’t have goalkeepers. When mistakes happen abroad, it’s called a bad day in the office. When they happen here, people have so much to say. You must keep your mentality at the top.”

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He added that even at home, his career is often questioned, “My mother still asks me when I’ll get a job yet I’m working as a footballer. As a man, these challenges are many and you cannot afford to put your head down.”

Training, preparation, and the journey ahead

Mukolwe says he feels physically prepared, thanks to years of maintaining top fitness levels.

“My body is in the best shape. I haven’t had injuries or health issues. This being my 10th season in the Premier League, I know my body well,” he said.

However, he noted that cycling requires a different kind of conditioning, and he has adopted a special training plan that includes a proper diet, high carbohydrates, proteins, and mentally visualizing the route.

He will begin the ride just hours after Kakamega Homeboyz’ final match of the year against Kenya Police on 22 December.

The plan is to depart Kakamega at 4 AM on 23 December, ride through Western and Rift Valley, and make Nakuru his rest point at the end of day one. He will then proceed to Nairobi on 24 December, reaching the capital before Christmas.

He will travel light carrying only water, electrolytes, and essential safety gear and says his biggest motivation will be reuniting with his wife and child at the finish line.

Mukolwe hopes his challenge will inspire others to build resilience in their own lives.

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“Life needs resilience. You won’t always get what you dream about, but challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone. When you do that, you’ll be better prepared when unpredictable challenges come.”

The 29-year-old goalkeeper also hinted that this will not be the last of such expeditions.

“These are initiatives I’m going to take even after my playing career. They excite me because I want to spread a positive mentality—showing that you can fight and reach where you want to.”

As December approaches, Mukolwe’s journey is shaping up to be more than a cycling trip. It is a powerful personal statement, one that mirrors the grit and perseverance required both in football and life.

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