Ishmael Kipkurui, the world cross country junior champion, is among the competitors who have secured their spots at the World Under 20 Athletics Championships starting today at Nyayo Stadium.
Kipkurui led the 5000m final from start to finish, clocking 13 minutes 42.71 seconds and securing his qualification alongside Andrew Kiptoo Alamisi, who finished second in 13:43.54.
Mercy Chepkemoi, the Sirikwa Cross Country junior champion, and Marion Jepngetich qualified for the 3000m, finishing first and second with times of 9:10.95 and 9:14.46, respectively.
Collins Koech and Josphat Kipkurui qualified for the men’s 1500m, with Koech finishing first in 3:41.50 and Kipkurui second in 3:42.20. Sheila Jebet and Mirriam Kibet qualified for the women’s 1500m events.
Kipkurui, the world U-20 cross-country champion, surpassed the qualifying mark of 14:08 ahead of the global event scheduled for August 27–31 in Lima, Peru.
Diana Chepkemoi and Judy Chepkoech claimed the top spots in the 3000m steeplechase, posting times of 9:51.51 and 10:04.71, respectively.
The trials conclude today, after which Athletics Kenya will select the squad to represent the country at the 20th World Under 20 Athletics Championships in Lima, Peru.
Kenya finished fourth in the 2022 edition in Cali, Colombia, securing three gold, three silver, and four bronze medals.
Ishmael Kipkurui displayed his prowess by clinching victory in the men’s 5000 meters at the World U-20 trials on Thursday at Nyayo Stadium. Andrew Alamisi clocked 13:43.54 for second place, while Shadrack Kipkemei finished third in 13:45.07.
“I leveraged my experience to win today’s race,” Kipkurui stated confidently.
On January 7, he placed fourth in the International Cross-Country event in Spain with a time of 30:43. Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi (30:34), Burundi’s Rodrigue Kwizera (30:39), and Morocco’s Soufiane Bakkali (30:41) completed the podium.
“I aim to secure the gold medal in my event in Peru. I am confident in my abilities,” he affirmed.
Upon entering training camp, Kipkurui plans to focus on improving his weaknesses. Post the World U20 Championships, he intends to transition to senior races.
“After the World U20, I will advance to compete in senior events. It’s a competitive category, and I will need to work hard to stay competitive,” he remarked.
Sarah Moraa triumphed in the women’s 800m semifinal with a time of 2:02.10, meeting the 2:09 qualifying standard.
Janet Amimo (2:06.82) and Daisy Ruto (2:14.51) finished second and third, respectively. Despite not hitting the Olympic qualifying mark of 1:59.30, Moraa remains optimistic about her performance in the upcoming finals.
Reported By Meshack Awino.
