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The Kenyan hockey XI and Harlequin great sadly passed away following a year-long battle with illness.
The Kenyan rugby and sporting fraternities have paid tribute to Peter Akatsa following the death of hockey and Kenya Harlequin great after he passed away on Saturday, October 7.
Akatsa, who represented the Kenyan national hockey team at the 1984 and 1988 Olympics, also played a key part in helping the side secure gold at the All African Games held at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in 1987.
Akatsa was also a solid rugby player. He proudly donned the rugby jersey for Kenya Harlequin and was a key member of the East African Tuskers during their Zambia-Zimbabwe Tour in 1982.
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In a statement released by the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), tributes were paid to the versatile sportsman, whose contributions during his peak years left an indelible mark in Kenyan hockey and rugby.
“With heavy hearts, we pay tribute to a true sports legend. We mourn the loss of Kenyan hockey great, Peter Akatsa, who left us on October 7, 2023, at the age of 63,” the statement read.
“Today, we remember and honor his remarkable contributions to sports and his unwavering dedication. May his soul rest in eternal peace. “
The Kenya Hockey Union also released a statement, describing him as a talented speedster who “made an immense contribution to the Kenya Hockey XI”
“Pete was a great sportsman who made immense contributions to the Kenya Hokey XI during its golden years in the ‘80s,” the union said.
“As a gifted speedstar, he inspired many along the way in both sports.”
After his career, Akatsa dedicated over two decades to coaching and mentoring young individuals in Lexington, particularly at Lexington Christian Academy (LCA).
His coaching journey encapsulated not only his love for sports but also his unwavering commitment to nurturing and developing the athletic abilities of his students.
Akatsa was highly respected and beloved by the LCA community, known for his positivity, enthusiasm, and the genuine care he exhibited towards his students
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In 2022, Akatsa was diagnosed with stage two colon cancer, a battle he bravely fought with the support of the LCA community and beyond.
A fundraising campaign was initiated by parents and community members to help cover his medical and related expenses during this challenging time.
The campaign highlighted Akatsa's enduring impact as a PE teacher, and coach, and a positive force in the lives of many young individuals, underscoring the community's desire to rally around him in his time of need.
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Sadly, Akatsa succumbed to the illness. His demise left a significant void in the hearts of those he coached and interacted with, marking the end of an era of dedicated service, mentorship, and an unyielding love for sports and community.
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