Jepchumba targets World U-20 medal before heading to the US on athletics scholarship

Team Kenya's rising middle-distance runner Marion Jepchumba is determined to end her junior career with a medal at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Oregon before beginning a new chapter in the United States.

The 18-year-old, who recently switched from the 400m to the 800m, will join the University of Nebraska-Lincoln next month on an athletics scholarship under the Nebraska Cornhuskers track and field programme.

“In April last year, I decided I wanted to study in the USA. I spent the year looking for a scholarship, and in August I secured a place at Nebraska-Lincoln. I got my visa in April and I'm now preparing to begin my studies,” said Jepchumba.

Jepchumba believes training and competing in the United States will accelerate her development as she works towards her long-term dream of representing Kenya at the 2028 Olympic Games.

She has been named in Team Kenya's squad for the World Athletics Under-20 Championships, set for August 5–9 in Oregon, alongside fellow 800m runner Nancy Jepng'etich.

The teenager heads into the championships with a personal best of 2:05.61, set on May 23, 2026, and is confident she can challenge for a podium finish.

"I am preparing thoroughly because I know going to the USA will give me access to better training and facilities. My goal is to keep improving, perform well next year, and ultimately qualify for the 2028 Olympics. I believe I will make it."