This archive report was first published on 3 July 2019.
Fast-rising Wanjiru wins steeplechase title at KDF Games ¶
Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) athletics championships kicked off on Wednesday, July 3, 2019, with Mercy Wanjiru of Lanet emerging victorious in the women's 3000m steeplechase title.
Wanjiru clocked 9:45.9, ahead of Naomi Chepkemwinoi of Kahawa who finished second with 9:57.2, while Agnes Chesang of Isiolo took third place with 10:02.8 at the Kasarani Stadium.
Wanjiru, who hails from Nyahururu, expressed her gratitude towards the favorable weather conditions, which she believes contributed to her win. She also emphasized her focus on the upcoming National Championships, which will serve as trials for the World Championships.
“I think today the weather was favourable for me and winning this race is a morale booster ahead of the trials. I am going to train even harder in order to make it to the national team,” Wanjiru said.
Naomi Chepkemoi, who finished second, revealed that she was recovering from a knee injury and was satisfied with her performance. Chepkemoi expressed her eagerness to perform well in the nationals.
“I did not expect to finish second because I was just recovering from a knee injury but I am satisfied with the result and I look forward to the nationals,” Chepkemoi said.
The three-day championship is being used by KDF to select a team for the national championships cum trials for the World Championships. The competition enters its third and final day tomorrow with majority of the finals lined up.
