This archive report was first published on 11 July 2021.
Published on July 11, 2021, Zenah Jemutai, the Africa Under-18 3,000m champion, is gearing up to represent Kenya at the World Under-20 Championships in Nairobi, scheduled for August 17-22.
After qualifying in a competitive race during the National Under-20 Trials, Jemutai expressed her determination to improve her speed, particularly in the final lap, which has been her major challenge.
“I want to improve on my speed especially in the final lap that has been my major challenge,” she said.
Jemutai has been training at the Kapsait Athletics Training Camp in Elgeyo Marakwet, where she has been sharpening her skills alongside world-class athletes, including world marathon record holder Brigid Kosgei.
Despite being forced to transfer to Korongoi High School due to the closure of Kapsait Secondary School, Jemutai remains focused on her athletic career.
She participated in the last edition of the championship, where she finished fifth in the 3,000m race, clocking a personal best time of 9:00.76.
During the National U-20 Trials, Jemutai came in second in the 3,000m race behind Japan-based Teresia Muthoni, automatically qualifying for the championships.
“I had a good time running in the 3,000m race at the junior level and I expect no hindrances in making the podium. I will try to use the experience I gained during the World Junior Championships in 2018 in Tampere, Finland. This is a championship and I need to work hard and deliver a medal for my country,” said Jemutai.
As she prepares to compete in her last year in the junior category, Jemutai is determined to graduate in style and make a successful transition to the senior category.
