Coach Julius Kirwa named the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Coach for the Month for September 2025/SJAKVeteran athletics coach Julius Kirwa has been honoured for his role in steering Team Kenya to a remarkable medal haul at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
Kirwa, serving as the Head Coach of the national team, guided Kenya to an impressive tally of 11 medals, cementing the country’s place as a global athletics powerhouse.
The Kenyan contingent secured seven gold medals, two silver, and two bronze, a performance that placed the nation second overall on the medal standings, just behind the United States of America.
The achievement has now earned Kirwa the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Coach of the Month award for September, a recognition that highlights his tactical guidance, experience, and motivational leadership.
The award was presented in Nairobi on Thursday, underscoring the importance of coaches in shaping Kenya’
Kirwa beat stiff competition from other celebrated coaches across various sporting disciplines to clinch the accolade.
Speaking after receiving the honour, the seasoned tactician expressed gratitude to the organisers for acknowledging the work of coaches, who often remain in the background while athletes take the spotlight.
“Thank you very much for recognising my work, and I hope forward we will work so hard so that we can capture the same,” Kirwa said, commending the private sector for supporting sports initiatives through sponsorships.
Kenya’s performance in Tokyo was particularly significant as it reinforced the country’s dominance in middle and long-distance races.
The gold medals were spread across men’s and women’s events, showcasing both depth and consistency in Kenyan athletics.
Kirwa’s ability to marshal talent, maintain discipline in camp, and instill belief in his athletes proved decisive in the high-pressure global contest.
His recognition also comes at a time when Kenyan coaches have been calling for more structured support, training opportunities, and incentives to match the growing competitiveness of world athletics.
The Kenyan team’s performance drew praise at home, with leaders and fans lauding the athletes for flying the country’s flag high.
Beatrice Chebet was one of the standout performers, winning two gold medals.
Faith Kipyegon also lived up to expectations by storming to victory in the women’s 1500m. The two-time Olympic champion added another global title to her glittering career.
Kenya’s strength in the steeplechase was once again evident after Faith Cherotich powered to gold in the women’s 3000m steeplechase in a championship record of 8:51.59.
Emmanuel Wanyonyi struck gold in the men’s 800m.
The final day of the championships saw Lilian Odira deliver a dramatic win in the women’s 800m. She clocked 1:54.62 to set yet another championship record and secure Kenya’s seventh gold medal.
