Serem and Kosgei Shine as Kenya Dominates Steeplechase at Lima Worlds

Kenya’s Edmund Serem and Matthew Kosgei secured gold and silver in the 3,000m steeplechase at the World Athletics U-20 Championships, which concluded at the Estadio Atlético de la Videna in Lima, Peru on Sunday. Their remarkable performances not only highlighted their individual talents but also cemented Kenya’s reputation as a powerhouse in the steeplechase event.

Edmund Serem, who had previously won silver at the Africa Athletics Championships, improved his performance dramatically to clinch gold with a time of 8:15.28. This victory was particularly significant as it underscored the Serem family’s legacy in the steeplechase. Serem’s brother, Amos Serem, had won gold in the 2021 World Athletics U-20 Championships held in Nairobi, continuing the family’s tradition of excellence in the sport.

Matthew Kosgei, who had to settle for bronze behind Serem at the Africa Championships, showcased his growth and determination by securing silver with a personal best time of 8:17.46. Kosgei’s achievement is a testament to his dedication and the support he received from his family, particularly his father, William Kosgei, who was also a renowned runner in the 1986 team.

Serem, reflecting on his triumph, expressed immense pride and fulfillment. “Winning Championship gold is a dream come true,” he said. “As a team leader, I had to set an example, and I’m thrilled that we could finish strong on the last day of the championships. This win is a result of relentless hard work and focus, and I am grateful to my coaches—Patrick Sang, Robert Ngisirei, Bernard Rono, and Peter Sang—for their invaluable support.”

Kosgei also acknowledged the vital role played by his family in his success. “I’m incredibly happy with my silver medal,” he stated. “The competition was tough, but I am grateful for the encouragement and support from my friend Serem and my family. My father and mother’s influence and my training regimen have contributed greatly to this achievement.”

The steeplechase event saw Ethiopia’s Hailu Ayalew taking the bronze with a personal best time of 8:24.08. The race was a true test of endurance and skill, with Serem and Kosgei demonstrating their superior capabilities to outpace their competitors.

In other events, Josphat Kipkirui finished fourth in the men’s 1,500m race with a time of 3:43.20. The race was won by Ethiopia’s Abdisa Fayisa, who clocked 3:40.51, while Australian Cameron Myers (3:40.60) and Spaniard Alex Pintado (3:41.03) took second and third places, respectively.

Earlier in the day, the women’s 1,500m race saw Kenya’s Mary Nyaboke Ogwoka and Miriam Chemutai Kibet finishing in 10th and 14th places with times of 4:22.60 and 4:26.80. Ethiopia’s Saron Berhe won gold with a time of 4:14.64, while Canadian Rachel Forsyth and Germany’s Jolanda Kallabis claimed silver and bronze with times of 4:17.94 and 4:19.34, respectively.

The World Athletics U-20 Championships in Lima showcased a new generation of talent, with Kenya’s steeplechase runners standing out as they upheld their country’s rich tradition in the sport. With the 2028 Olympic Games on the horizon, the achievements of Serem and Kosgei are promising signs of Kenya’s continued dominance and the bright future of its athletes.