Kenya’s stirring campaign at the 20th World Athletics Championships in Tokyo reaffirmed its enduring power on the global stage. With 11 medals—seven gold, two silver and two bronze—the nation rose to second place overall, a commanding return that reasserted the East African nation among global sports giants.
Above all, this was the championship of Kenyan women. Six of the seven golds came from their relentless strides.
Beatrice Chebet’s dazzling double in the 5,000m and 10,000m placed her among legends like Tirunesh Dibaba and Vivian Cheruiyot. Faith Kipyegon’s flawless 1500m run, Peris Jepchirchir’s marathon brilliance, Faith Cherotich’s steeplechase win and Lilian Odira’s shock 800m gold rewrote the record books.
Their sweep of every women’s long-distance title was unprecedented—proof that Kenyan women now set the global standard. These victories reflect years of investment in women’s athletics, mentorship and grassroots development.
Emmanuel Wanyonyi’s 800m triumph added a bright note, signalling promise for the men’s team. Kenya’s climb from fifth in Budapest to second in Tokyo shows strategic gains in coaching, preparation and competitive grit.
Quote of the day: “You know you’re in love
when you can’t fall asleep because reality
is finally better than your dreams.” —The
American children’s author, illustrator and
cartoonist Dr Seuss died on September 24, 1991
