By Robert Kibet, Nairobi | November 12, 2025
East Africa continues to shape the future of world athletics, with two Kenyans — Phanuel Koech and Edmund Serem— named among the three finalists for the prestigious 2025 World Athletics Men’s Rising Star Award. Joining them is Ethiopia’s long-distance sensation Biniam Mehary, completing an all-African shortlist that underlines the continent’s dominance in youth distance running.
The award celebrates the most outstanding Under-20 male athletes of the year, recognising those who have produced exceptional performances on the global stage. The winner will be crowned later this month during the World Athletics Awards in Monaco.
Phanuel Koech: The Middle-Distance Marvel
At just 18 years old, Phanuel Koech has turned heads in a remarkable season that saw him break the World U20 record in the 1500m after clocking 3:27.72 at the Paris Diamond League. Koech followed up that feat with victory in the London Diamond League 1500 m, defeating experienced senior competitors.
Koech’s fearless racing and smooth transition into senior competition have made him one of the year’s biggest revelations — and a beacon of what structured youth systems can achieve. His progress demonstrates the power of early talent identification and consistent mentorship through well-established youth pathways.
Edmund Serem: Kenya’s Steeplechase Successor
In a year when Kenya’s steeplechase tradition faced pressure from emerging rivals, Edmund Serem restored pride with a breakout performance at the World Championships in Tokyo, clinching bronze in the men’s 3000 m steeplechase. Earlier in the season, he stormed to victory at the Absa Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi, overcoming a strong Ethiopian field.
Serem’s story is one of patience, progression, and preparation — rising through the junior ranks before delivering at the senior level. For Athletics Kenya, he represents the ideal bridge between grassroots development and world-class achievement.
Biniam Mehary: Ethiopia’s Enduring Legacy
From Ethiopia, Biniam Mehary completes the trio after a stellar season that included a World U20 record over 3000 m short track and a fifth-place finish in the 5000 m at the World Championships. His nomination reflects Ethiopia’s continued strength in distance running and the value of investment in long-term athlete development.
Youth Development in Focus
For Athletics Kenya Youth Development, the presence of two Kenyan finalists among the top three globally is more than a triumph; it’s validation. It signals that the country’s structured talent-nurturing systems, supported by local clubs, regional trials, and high-altitude training camps, are bearing fruit.
“These nominations show that Kenya’s youth programmes are working. Phanuel and Serem are products of patience, mentorship, and opportunity — exactly what we aim to build across the country,” said Barnaba Korir, Director of Athletics Kenya Youth Development and First Vice-President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK).
“Our vision is to identify talent early, support it with proper coaching, and give our young athletes exposure to international competition. The results speak for themselves — Kenya’s next generation is already competing with the world’s best.”
Inspiration for the Next Generation
The all-African shortlist also serves as motivation for upcoming athletes across the continent. From dusty school tracks in Eldoret to community fields in Iten and Keringet, these young stars are proof that global success begins with grassroots development and local commitment.
As the countdown continues toward the World Athletics Awards in Monaco, Kenya and Africa can take pride in a new generation of runners ready to carry the continent’s legacy forward — faster, younger, and stronger than ever before.
