In the world of steeplechase, Kenya has long been a dominant force, often considered unbeatable until the Tokyo 2020 Olympics when the gold slipped away. Now, as the Paris Olympics approach, the pressure mounts on the new team of Simon Koech, Amos Serem, and Abraham Kibiwott to reclaim what many still consider the ‘Kenyan race’. To aid them in this quest, none other than two-time Olympic steeplechase champion Ezekiel Kemboi has stepped in, offering his invaluable expertise and experience.
Ezekiel Kemboi, who triumphed in the 3,000m steeplechase at both the 2004 Athens and 2012 London Olympics, has been closely working with the trio. His wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience of what it takes to win at the highest level of competition is an asset that Koech, Serem, and Kibiwott are keen to leverage.
Kemboi’s insights into the current team’s preparations have highlighted a few critical areas that need fine-tuning. “The talent and determination are there,” Kemboi remarked, “but to challenge the defending champion Soufiane El Bakkali of Morocco, who has dominated both the Tokyo Olympics and the last two World Championships, we need to make some strategic improvements.”
One of the main aspects Kemboi believes the team needs to work on is their speed. “Steeplechase is not just about endurance and technique; speed plays a crucial role, especially in the final laps. We need to ensure that our athletes can maintain a competitive pace throughout the race,” he explained.
Moreover, the water barriers, a distinctive and challenging feature of the steeplechase, require particular attention. “The water jumps can be game-changers. A well-executed jump can save valuable time and energy, while a poor one can disrupt the rhythm and cost the race. We are focusing on improving their technique and confidence in clearing these barriers efficiently,” Kemboi added.
Beyond physical preparation, Kemboi emphasizes the importance of psychological readiness. The pressure to reclaim the gold for Kenya is immense, and handling this pressure is vital for success. “Winning at the Olympics requires not just physical prowess but mental toughness. We are working on strategies to help the athletes stay focused, confident, and resilient under pressure,” he noted.
Kemboi also highlighted the importance of teamwork. Though the race is individual, the spirit of camaraderie and support within the team can significantly boost performance. “We are fostering a strong team spirit among Koech, Serem, and Kibiwott. They are pushing each other to their limits in training, and this competitive yet supportive environment is crucial,” Kemboi stated.
As the Paris Olympics draw nearer, the Kenyan steeplechase team continues to train rigorously, implementing Kemboi’s guidance and strategies. The legacy of Kenyan excellence in the steeplechase hangs in the balance, but with the insights of a seasoned champion like Kemboi, the path to reclaiming gold is becoming clearer.
Kemboi remains optimistic about their prospects. “The journey to gold is never easy, but with hard work, dedication, and the right focus, I believe we can bring the title back to Kenya. The world will see a strong, prepared, and determined Kenyan team in Paris.”
