Serem wins Kenya's first Commonwealth Games gold in 3,000m steeplechase

The reigning World Under-20 steeplechase champion stormed to victory in 8:18.23, ahead of compatriots Simon Koech, who claimed silver in 8:18.59, and Leonard Bett, who completed the all-Kenyan podium with bronze in 8:21.63.

The dominant display came just hours after Diana Wanza had opened Kenya's medal account on the track by winning silver in the women's 10,000m, lifting Team Kenya's medal tally to five — one gold, two silver and two bronze medals.

An emotional Serem described the victory as a dream come true in what is his maiden Commonwealth Games appearance.

"I've won my first title in my first Commonwealth Games, and I'm very happy. I know my family is happy back at home and 50 million people out there in Kenya are all happy. And more so we went for a clean sweep for Kenya. Today, I've had like 20 calls from my father," said an elated Serem.

The 20-year-old admitted he had not expected to emerge victorious, especially in a field that featured some of the world's best steeplechasers, including reigning world champion Geordie Beamish of New Zealand.

"I was not sure. The field was very strong. We had world champion (Geordie) Beamish. We also had Simon Koech who recently ran under eight minutes. I was seeing myself in a podium position but I was not sure if I was going to win, until the last lap when I saw I had the extra energy and decided to push," Serem said.

Kenya has long dominated the men's 3,000m steeplechase on the global stage, producing Olympic and World champions such as Ezekiel Kemboi, Conseslus Kipruto, Brimin Kipruto and Saif Saaeed Shaheen.

The Glasgow clean sweep reaffirmed the country's status as the undisputed powerhouse in the event.

The result also marks a significant milestone for Serem, who has enjoyed a rapid rise through the ranks after winning the World Under-20 title and establishing himself as one of Kenya's brightest middle-distance prospects.

With athletics now gathering momentum at the Games, Team Kenya will be hoping Monday's breakthrough inspires more podium finishes as the country's medal chase continues in Glasgow.