Jackline Chepkoech clinched Kenya’s second gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Chepkoech clocked a new Games Record-breaking time of 9:15.19 to clinch the women’s 3000-meter steeplechase title on Friday night, August 5.
Chepkoech was Kenya’s representative in the race after Celliphine Chespol suffered an injury sidelining her from competing.
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The 2021 World Under-20 Champion earned her first senior victory, competing only in her second senior event.
The 18-year-old showed dominance against the Olympic Champion, Peruth Chemutai, of Uganda who took silver.
This was Kenya's second gold in Birmingham, with the first coming from Africa's fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala in the 100m final.
Chepkoech received congratulatory messages from many Kenyan leaders who praised her for being a good ambassador.
“From World Junior Champion to gold at the Commonwealth Games. Our very own Jackline Chepkoech has inspired the whole nation to dream big and pursue greatness - for victory is always around the corner. We are beyond proud. Congratulations,” Martha Karua stated.
“Fantastic run in the 3000m by Jackline Chepkoech beating a talented field to bag Kenya our second Gold medal. Keep running and keep inspiring our youth. The entire nation is proud of you. Kudos,” Raila Odinga noted.
“Congratulations Jackline Chepkoech for clinching Kenya's second gold in the Women's Steeplechase at the Commonwealth games. You are a true champion and wonderful ambassador of our nation,” Deputy President William Ruto noted.
Kenya is still hopeful of adding its medal tally in the competitions.
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