Kenyan athletes eye strong start as World U20 Champs begin in Eugene
Audio By Vocalize
More than 1,800 athletes from 147 countries are competing at the championship, running from August 5 to 9, with Kenya banking on its distance runners to deliver an early medal haul.
The day’s programme begins with the men’s 800 metres heats featuring Nashon Pkiach and Collins Tajewou before Nancy Jepngetich competes in the women’s first round.
Mercy Chepngeno and Anatasha Cheptoo will then line up in the women’s 3,000 metres steeplechase first round ahead of Kenya’s first medal opportunities in the women’s and men’s 5,000 metres finals.
World Under-20 cross-country champion Frankline Kibet will lead Kenya’s men’s 5,000m challenge alongside Nehemiah Kipngeno, while Joyline Chepkemoi and African Under-18 3,000m champion Cynthia Chepkirui will represent Kenya in the women’s final.
Kenya has sent a team of 23 athletes, 12 boys and 11 girls, to the championships and will be aiming to better its seven-medal haul from the 2024 edition, where the country won three gold, three silver and one bronze medal.
Head coach Robert Ngisirei said the team experienced several flight delays before arriving in the United States but added that the athletes had recovered well ahead of the opening day’s competition.
“We had challenges with our journey because of several flight delays and cancellations, but everyone is now here and ready. We held an evening training session to help the athletes shake off the jet lag. The weather is good, the athletes have prepared well and we expect good results,” said Ngisirei.
Among Kenya’s leading medal hopes is Kipngeno, who said his focus is on delivering a podium finish rather than chasing a fast time.
“I thank all Kenyans for your prayers. Please continue praying for the entire team so that we can bring medals back home and celebrate together as one nation. My best time is 13:23, but tomorrow it’s not about the time, it’s about the position,” he said.
Chepkemoi, who competed alongside senior athletes at the World Cross Country Championships earlier this year, believes the experience has strengthened her confidence heading into Eugene.
“Racing with the seniors gave me confidence. I want my future to be bright and I want to become a champion. I thank my mum for always praying for me and I promise her and my fans that I will do my best to bring something good home.”
The World Athletics Under-20 Championships have launched the careers of several Kenyan greats, including Faith Kipyegon and David Rudisha.
Kenya will be hoping this year’s team can follow that path with a strong start in Eugene.
Join the Discussion
Share your perspective with the Citizen Digital community.
No comments yet
This discussion is waiting for your voice. Be the first to share your thoughts!