Kenya reaffirmed its dominance in the men’s 3000m steeplechase with a stunning podium sweep at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, as Edmund Serem, Simon Koech, and Leonard Bett claimed gold, silver, and bronze respectively.
Serem produced a strong finishing kick to overtake compatriot Simon Koech on the final lap, crossing the line in 8:18.23 to secure the Commonwealth title. Koech settled for silver in 8:18.59, while Leonard Bett completed Kenya’s clean sweep with bronze in 8:21.63
The trio shut out a competitive international field that included reigning world champion Geordie Beamish of New Zealand, who finished fourth in 8:24.09, and Canada’s Jean-Simon Desgagnés, who placed fifth in 8:25.43.
The race unfolded as a tactical affair in its early stages before the Kenyan athletes steadily increased the pace. With one lap remaining, Koech led the pack, followed closely by Serem and Bett. Serem then unleashed a decisive surge after the final water jump to claim victory, while Bett held on to secure the bronze medal and complete Kenya’s memorable 1-2-3 finish.
“I’m very happy, winning my first title at my first Commonwealth Games is an incredible feeling,” said 18-year old Serem after making a dream debut at Glasgow 2026.
The result further cemented Kenya’s rich legacy in the steeplechase, an event the country has dominated on the global stage for decades. The podium sweep also marked one of Team Kenya’s standout performances on the opening night of athletics competition in Glasgow.
