Mercy Oketch: The new face of Kenyan sprinting on the global stage

Known for her explosive speed and consistency, Oketch has quickly become a name to watch in Kenyan athletics.

Her triumph at the Meeting de Marseille this weekend saw her claim gold in the women’s 400m, clocking 50.89 seconds, a new meeting record, breaking the mark previously held by 2024 Olympic bronze medalist Natalia Bukowiecka.

Oketch’s victory wasn’t easy, as she edged out Britain’s Laviai Nielsen, an Olympic double bronze medalist, who finished second in 51.65 seconds.

Earlier in May, Oketch showcased her strength in the 4×400m mixed relay final at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, where she delivered a blistering 49.77 seconds split to help Kenya secure its second-ever bronze medal in the event.

Her performance also anchored the team to a qualification slot for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Back home, she lit up the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour, winning the 400m in 50.15 seconds, setting a new Kenyan national record, and earning her qualification for the World Championships,0.60 seconds faster than the standard qualifying time.

The Moi Airbase athlete was also among the best female athletes feted for her outstanding performance at the 2025 edition of the Military Track and Field Championships at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

With the National trials set for July 22, Mercy Oketch is also expected to use it to gear up her preparations for the World Championships with the hope of making a mark in Kenya’s sprinting profile.