Kenya delivered a commendable performance at the World Athletics U20 Championships, securing a fifth-place finish overall with a total of seven medals.
The five-day event, held at the Estadio Atlético de la Videna in Lima, Peru, concluded with Kenya taking home three gold medals, three silver, and one bronze.
The highlight of the final day was Team Captain Edmund Serem’s victory in the 3,000m steeplechase. Serem led an impressive 1-2 finish for Kenya, crossing the line in 8:15.28, ahead of compatriot Matthew Kosgei, who claimed silver with a personal best of 8:17.46.
Ethiopia’s Hailu Ayalew took bronze with a personal best of 8:24.08. Serem’s victory continues a family tradition, as he reclaimed the steeplechase title last won by his brother, Amos Serem, in the 2021 edition of the championships in Nairobi.
“As a team leader, I had to show the way despite the event coming on the last day. The team did well, and as the games end, we have a reason to work hard and focus on the 2028 Olympic Games,” said Serem.
Kosgei credited his success to the unwavering support of his parents, both former athletes. “I’m so happy to have bagged silver in such a competitive race. I appreciate my friend Serem for encouraging me to hang on, and I have to continue training for the next assignments,” Kosgei said.
Sarah Moraa, the reigning Africa 800m champion, secured gold in the women’s 800m with a time of 2:00.36. She was the only Kenyan in the final, finishing ahead of Australia’s Claudia Hollingsworth (2:00.87) and USA’s Sophia Gorriaran (2:01.04).
Moraa expressed her delight in winning her first world championship gold on her debut, emphasizing her focus on preparing for the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.
The first gold for Kenya came on the opening day of the championships, courtesy of Andrew Kiptoo Alamisi in the men’s 5,000m. Alamisi clocked 13:41.14, narrowly edging out Ethiopia’s Abdisa Fayisa (13:41.56) and Uganda’s Keneth Kiprop (13:41.73).
Alamisi, a double silver medalist at the Commonwealth Youth Games, was overjoyed with his victory. “I really wanted to win this gold because of my preparations and for my country. I thank God for helping me win my first gold,” said Alamisi.
Other medalists for Kenya included Marion Jepngetich, who won silver in the women’s 3,000m with a time of 8:52.37, and Denis Kipkoech, who secured silver in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase, finishing in 8:20.79.
Kenya’s lone bronze came from Diana Chepkemoi in the women’s 3,000m steeplechase, where she posted a personal best of 9:29.84.
Despite facing challenges, including injuries and stiff competition, Kenya’s young athletes showcased resilience and determination, laying a solid foundation for future success on the global stage.
The team’s overall performance in Lima reflects their potential as they set their sights on future international competitions, including the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games.
