Faith Cherotich Shines at Olympic Trials, Winning Women’s 3000m Steeplechase

Faith Cherotich, affectionately nicknamed ‘Small Faith’ by her colleagues, triumphed in the women’s 3000m steeplechase final at the Olympic trials on Saturday at Nyayo Stadium, demonstrating her exceptional skill in the final two circuits.

Cherotich, a Form Four student, clocked 9:22.28, surpassing world record holder Beatrice Chepkoech, who finished in 9:22.76. Jackline Chepkoech secured third place with a time of 9:34.86.

The 19-year-old Cherotich is a rising star, recently guided by multiple world and Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon. She is already a senior world medalist in the 3000m steeplechase and the reigning world Under-20 champion. Additionally, she was honored with the 2023 Women’s World Athletics Rising Star Award.

“I’m so happy to make the Olympics. This year will be special as I will be sitting for my KCSE examinations. After the Olympics, I will fully concentrate on my studies,” said Cherotich.

Beatrice Chepkoech, who finished in second place, assured a strong performance in Paris. Chepkoech set a world record of 8:44.32 in Monaco in 2018, becoming the first woman to break the 8:50 and 8:45 barriers. “The goal was to finish 1-2, which I happily accomplished. The next step is full preparation for the Olympics, and we aim to win,” stated Chepkoech.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Wanyonyi was given another chance to compete in today’s finals after collapsing on the home stretch in the semi-finals yesterday. Africa Games champions Aaron Cheminingwa and Kipngetich Ngeno are among those who reached the final, but Olympic winner Emmanuel Korir, who has been battling injuries, is out.

Kenyan Olympic Trials Results

Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Finals

Faith Cherotich – 9:22.28
Beatrice Chepkoech – 9:22.76
Jackline Chepkoech – 9:34.86
Men’s 800m Semifinals Results:

Heat 1

Alex Ngeno – 1:46.94
Nicholas Kiplagat – 1:47.04
Koitatoi Kidali – 1:47.19
Heat 2

Laban Chepkwony – 1:46.21
Wycliffe Kinyamal – 1:46.70
Festus Lagat – 1:47.99
Heat 3

Aron Cheminingwa – 1:47.20Q
Kelvin Kibet – 1:47.35
Noah Kibet – 1:48.04.

Reported By Meshack Awino.