AK to ‘stay close’ with U-20 stars for Los Angeles Olympics

The youngsters jetted back to the country on Thursday after harvesting seven medals; three gold, three silver and one bronze, to place fifth overall behind USA, Ethiopia, China and Jamaica respectively.

Mutwii, who had accompanied the junior team to the biannual championship, said the federation would monitor the athletes to ensure they gradually graduate to the senior level without going off the rails.

“I’ve been with so many junior teams to many championships but this squad is among those I’ve found special. They are disciplined and committed. We will guide them because they carry our future and especially the 2028 Olympics,” Mutwii said upon the team’s arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Sarah Moraa, who timed 2 mins 00.36 seconds to win gold in the women’s 800m final, attributed her heroics to hard work and also inspiration from her cousin and world 800m champion Mary Moraa.

“My family and friends are my biggest support system. Moraa (Mary) always encourages me and I can say I’m keenly following in her footsteps.”

The triumph in Lima marked Moraa’s second major win this year, following her earlier victory at the African Games in Accra, Ghana.

The men’s 3000m steeplechase champion Edmund Serem, who is also drawing inspiration from a family member—Amos Serem, elder brother and former world junior champion, believes he will dominate the race as he prepares to join Amos in the senior level.

Kenya has recently lost the water and barrier event stranglehold with Soufiane El Bakkali of Morocco winning back to back Olympics titles and also World Championships gold in Budapest last year.

“I believe I can bring back our dominance. It’s not easy but with dedication and focus, I know we can unite with my colleagues to bring back the glory.

Serem led his compatriot Matthew Kosgei in winning gold and silver in the event on the last day of the junior championships, clocking 8:15.28 for the title.