Faith Cherotich is sharpening her focus for Tokyo after her latest triumph on the Diamond League circuit. The young steeplechaser, fresh from victory in Zurich, has declared her intent to challenge Olympic champion Winfred Yavi in what promises to be one of the most thrilling clashes on the track.
Cherotich clocked 8:57.24 in Zurich to storm past a strong field, including Norah Jeruto and Marwa Bouzayani, cementing her reputation as one of the most consistent athletes of the season. Despite nursing a cold, she displayed grit and composure to power through, a trademark of her steady rise in the discipline.
Her Zurich success adds to a remarkable 2024 campaign that has seen her collect wins in Doha, Paris, and Oslo, while also dominating at Kenya’s World Championship trials. With a world-leading 8:53.37 already under her belt this year, Cherotich has proven her ability to dictate races and stay competitive against the very best.
The challenge that looms largest is Bahraini star Winfred Yavi. Yavi set the tone earlier in the season with a commanding win at the Prefontaine Classic in 8:45.25, where Cherotich had to settle for second in 8:48.71. Their rivalry has only deepened since last year’s World Championships in Budapest, where Yavi struck gold, Beatrice Chepkoech took silver, and Cherotich claimed bronze.
For the Kenyan prodigy, Zurich feels like a turning point. By winning in adverse conditions and reaffirming her sub-nine-minute consistency, Cherotich has sent a clear message ahead of Tokyo. Her confidence is peaking at the right moment, and she believes her momentum can help her turn the tables on her Bahraini rival.
Cherotich will lead Kenya’s steeplechase charge in Tokyo, teaming up with NCAA champion Doris Lemngole and double NCAA winner Pamela Kosgei. Together, they form a formidable squad capable of pushing for multiple podium places.
“I had been preparing for the Diamond League final since the start of the season, and winning it gives me confidence for Tokyo,” she explained after her Zurich triumph. “Now I will focus on sharpening my form and getting even better.”
With her resilience, growing experience, and unshakable belief, Faith Cherotich heads to Tokyo ready to challenge Yavi and stake her claim for Olympic gold.
