Under the blazing Nakuru sun, Kenya’s Under-18 track talents brought heat to Afraha Stadium on Day One of the Athletics Kenya Trials for the 2025 CAA U18 Championships. The stakes were high, the ambitions even higher, as athletes clashed for a coveted spot on Team Kenya heading to Nigeria.
From explosive long-distance battles to thrilling steeplechase finishes, the youngsters showcased hunger and raw talent that could soon dominate African junior athletics.
In the boys’ 3000m, Central Rift’s Kevin Kiprop Biwott delivered a masterclass in strategy and grit, stopping the clock at 8:02.54. The Eldama Ravine-based athlete fended off a late surge from his challengers, attributing his edge to a strong cross-country season and smart speedwork.
“It was tough, but I trusted my kick,” Kiprop said. “Running in slightly hot weather on tartan helps hit the target time.”
The U18 girls’ 2000m steeplechase was equally captivating. Mercy Chepng’eno Mageso clocked an impressive 6:33.19, outpacing Clare Chepng’etich from Tiloa camp, who displayed sheer grit despite lacking proper barrier training facilities.
“I will now work on my errors to ensure I bring gold for Kenya,” said Chepng’eno. “My season has been strong, and I’m motivated by teammates Diana and Sharon Chepkemoi.”
Runner-up Clare Chepngetich timed 6:41.78 and spoke of her uphill training journey:
“We don’t have barriers or water jumps at our camp, which makes it tough. But I’ll work hard if I’m selected for Team Kenya.”
Not to be outdone, the U18 boys’ steeplechase delivered a dramatic photo finish, with Brian Kiptoo Ngetich matching Mercy’s exact time of 6:33.19. The Kiptere Secondary School Form Three student looked sharp, fresh from racing in Uganda and focused on the Nigeria assignment.
“I’ve been working on speed and endurance. The trials are tough, but I’m ready,” he said.
In the sprint preliminaries, promising U18 speedsters Simeon Obori Araka and Emmanuel Tubula made a mark, offering a taste of what’s to come in Saturday’s finals.
As the U18 athletes gear up for finals showdowns in relays and sprints, one thing is evident: Kenya’s next generation is bursting with promise, and they are hungry to shine in Lagos.
ROBERT KIBET- A Nairobi-based freelance journalist.
