Kenya reaffirmed its dominance in the steeplechase after Emmanuel Lemiso and Brian Kiptoo Ng’etich produced a gold-silver finish in the U-18 boys’ 2000m steeplechase final at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championships, held at the OMK Stadium in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Lemiso crossed the finish line in 5:34.71, ahead of teammate Kimutai, who took silver in 5:40.02. The race outcome not only extended Kenya’s traditional strength in the steeplechase discipline but also showcased the rising talents emerging from the country’s junior development system.
From the start, Lemiso set a steady tempo, quickly asserting control of the race as the pack moved into the first lap. Kimutai, equally composed, stayed close to his teammate’s shoulder. An Algerian briefly took the lead in the middle stages of the race, but both Kenyan athletes remained focused, using their superior barrier technique and race management to regain control.
By the 2:50 mark, Lemiso made a decisive surge, pulling away from the field with a strong burst that opened a nearly 50-metre lead. His smooth clearance of the final water jump and barriers left no doubt about his intent.
Kimutai followed strongly, fending off a challenge from the chasing group to secure second place.
The Kenyan duo’s technical execution, particularly their form over the barriers, stood out, with Lemiso displaying efficiency and rhythm while Kimutai relied on his compact, powerful stride to maintain pace.
“The performance was impressive,” said Japheth Kemei, who coaches Kimutai in Kiptere, Kericho County. “Brian Kimutai is following in the footsteps of his elder brother, who won bronze in the 10,000m Under-20 category and is now a student at the University of Oklahoma. His running skills are amazing, and he’s still young. This is just the beginning.”
The result underscores the success of Athletics Kenya’s investment in youth talent through regional under-20 training camps across the country. It also highlights the depth Kenya continues to build in the steeplechase — a discipline where the country has produced multiple Olympic and world champions.
With performances like these, the future of Kenya’s steeplechase legacy looks secure as the next generation of athletes continues to emerge on the continental stage.
By Robert Kibet -Freelance journalist
