Chebet's triumph marks a major milestone not only for Kenya’s athletics campaign but for herself. /TEAM KENYABeatrice Chebet has clinched Kenya’s first gold medal at the World Championships in Tokyo after winning the women’s 10,000m in 30:37.61.
Her victory ended a decade-long drought in the event, last won in 2015 by Vivian Cheruiyot in Beijing.
Italian Nadia Battocletti held on strong and settled for silver in a national record of 30:38.23.
Its her her second global medal for the second year in a row.
Battocletti was the only runner to hang with Chebet over the final 200 meters, outkicking 2023 gold medalist Gudaf Tsegay and road world record holder Agnes Ngetich in hot, humid conditions.
Ethiopia's Gudaf Tsegay finished third in 30:39.65 to clinch bronze with Ngetich settling for fourth position in 30:42.66.
Chebet's triumph marks a major milestone not only for Kenya’s athletics campaign but for herself.
She's now the World Record holder, the reigning Olympic champion and now the world champion in women's 10,000 meters race.
On her arrival back home, Chebet is guaranteed enhanced reward of Sh3 million as promised by President William Ruto for each gold medalist.
Meanwhile, Faith Kipyegon, Dorcus Ewoi, Nelly Chepchirchir and Susan Ejore have all qualified for the women’s 1500m semifinals at the World Athletics Championships.
Kenya's lineup of strong and experienced athletes in the race could guarantee the country straight podium finish in the final if they go past the semis.
