This archive report was first published on 19 November 2021.
On August 22, 2021, Emmanuel Wanyonyi made history by clocking a new Championship Record of 1:43.76 in the 800m final at the World Athletics U20 Championships held at the Moi International Sports Complex in Nairobi.
Wanyonyi's outstanding performance has made him one of the favourites for the 2021 Rising Star Award, which will be announced live at the World Athletics Awards 2021 on December 1.
Alongside Wanyonyi, four other men have been nominated for the award: Sean Burrell and Erriyon Knighton from the United States, Tadese Worku from Ethiopia, and Sasha Zhoya from France.
Wanyonyi's journey to the top began with a hard-fought win at the Kenyan trials, where he finished second. However, his determination and passion for the sport propelled him to success, and he went on to win the 800m final in a thrilling competition.
When asked about his achievement, Wanyonyi expressed his gratitude and confidence in his abilities, saying, "Running a time of 1:43.76 at high altitude and setting a championship record has just confirmed that indeed I am good in this race."
Wanyonyi's coach, Janeth Jepkosgei, a 2007 world champion, has been instrumental in his success. Wanyonyi's sights are now set on breaking David Rudisha's world record of 1:40.91.
