By Robert Kibet
In a dramatic and tightly contested under-18 girls’ 3000m final at the ongoing Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championships at OMK Stadium in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Kenya’s Cynthia Chepkurui held her nerve and unleashed a blistering kick to outpace Ethiopia’s late challenge and secure gold for Kenya in a winning time of 9:26.35.
From the early laps, Chepkurui stayed glued to the lead pack, which included two Ugandans, with compatriot Lornah Cherono also keeping close. The commentators’ attention centered on the East African rivalry unfolding on the track—Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia all tactically bunched together, none willing to give in.
As the race crossed the five-minute mark, the leading group began to stretch. It was now a battle of nerves and strategy between three Ugandans, three Ethiopians, and the two Kenyans. Chepkurui remained undeterred, strategically positioning herself between the Ugandan duo to disrupt their rhythm while preserving her energy.
The intensity picked up at the 200m curve. With 6:25 on the clock, Chepkurui surged forward, momentarily taking the lead as the crowd roared. Her fluid stride and commanding presence were on full display as she gestured with her right hand, urging others to keep their lane and avoid unnecessary shoving.
As they hit the bell, the Ethiopian duo mounted their final charge, slipping past her as she briefly checked the clock. But it was far from over. With steely determination and perfect execution of her race plan, Chepkurui responded with a powerful finishing sprint, overtaking the tall-legged Ethiopians in the final stretch in what nearly turned into a photo finish.
Cynthia Chepkurui, who trains at Lemotit Athletics Camp in Kericho County under coach Paul Kemei, celebrated an emotional win, delivering Kenya another gold in style.
Joseph Ilovi, the Athletics Kenya youth secretary and team manager to the junior squad in Nigeria, expressed his delight at Chepkurui’s gold and the team’s performance so far.
“The performance so far is impressive. We have a vibrant group of young and enthusiastic individuals. The girls’ 3000m U18 result has truly answered our prayers. We thank God for Cynthia Chepkurui, who delivered a great performance today. Although Lornah finished fifth, she is a promising talent to watch. Athletics Kenya has selected her to represent Kenya in the inaugural Africa school games organised by ANOCA Games in Algeria from July 26th to August 4th. Let’s keep her in our prayers,” said Ilovi.
