This archive report was first published on 19 August 2021.
Published on August 19, 2021, the World Athletics Under-20 Championships at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, have dealt a blow to Kenya's women's 800m team.
Sheila Chepkosgei, who led at the bell in 58.83 before winning the first heat in a personal best of 2 minutes and 2.62 seconds, was disqualified for lane infringement.
Her compatriot Brenda Chebet, who also led at the bell in 1:00.93, struggled in the last 200m of the race, finishing last in 2:12.16.
Despite their efforts, Chepkosgei's and Chebet's performances were overshadowed by Ayal Dagnachew from Ethiopia, who won heat two with a personal best of 2:02.94, and Elli Eftychia from Greece, who finished second in 2:05.38.
"I am gutted beyond words," said Chebet, who struggled with tendon pain and was unable to kick in the final stretch.
Kenya has not won a medal in the women's 800m since Margaret Nyairera's victory in 2014 Eugene.
