Kericho: Budding junior athletes training in Kericho County have vowed to shine in the upcoming national trials bid to qualify for Team Kenya ahead of the World Athletics U20 Championships that will be staged in Eugene, Oregon, United States in August. The team of four is hopeful of posting impressive personal best times in their respective track disciplines during the upcoming national trials slated for 21st to 23rd May 2026 at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi.
According to Kenya News Agency, Athletics Kenya (AK) First Vice Chairman Kericho branch Gabriel Kiptanui expressed confidence that the athletes will post excellent results from their respective track disciplines citing their discipline and commitment during training. “I have no doubt that the four budding athletes will deliver excellent results during the upcoming national trials. I have keenly observed their dedication and discipline, which are key ingredients not only for excellent performances but also for securing qualification to Team Kenya,” he said.
Kiptanui, who doubles as a coach, noted the region’s potential in producing great athletes. Among the four budding athletes, Gedion Kiptoo, 17, said the event will serve as a launching pad for greatness in his 800 meters track discipline and expressed confidence in attaining a personal best time of 1:49 and securing qualification to Team Kenya. Kiptoo shared his journey, mentioning his active participation in school races and his victory in most competitions, which motivated him to pursue running as a full-time career. He aims to improve his personal best from 1:51, achieved last year, to 1:49 in the upcoming trials.
Coach Kiptanui, credited with producing top track stars, has been instrumental in guiding athletes like Beatrice Chepkoech, Mercy Cherono, and Sheila Chepkirui to success. The World Athletics U20 Championships, scheduled for 5th to 9th August 2026, aims to showcase the best junior athletes aged 19 or younger worldwide.
