Kenya’s presence in the world of middle- and long-distance running was once again on full display as Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Cherotich delivered exceptional performances at the Oslo Diamond League on Thursday night. Both athletes claimed victories in their respective events, thrilling the crowd and affirming their rising stature ahead of the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo.
Emmanuel Wanyonyi, reigning Olympic champion in the men’s 800 metres, showcased his trademark composure and finishing power to win the race with a time of 1:42.77. It was a hard-fought victory against a high-calibre field, including Spain’s Mohamed Attaoui and Algeria’s Djamel Sedjati. Despite long travels from Kenya and a hint of fatigue, Wanyonyi maintained tactical control throughout the two-lap race, fending off his challengers in the final 100 metres.
Though he narrowly missed out on breaking David Rudisha’s stadium record of 1:42.04, Wanyonyi recorded a season’s best and his eighth career Diamond League victory, underlining his growing dominance in the 800m. His consistency at the elite level makes him a favourite heading into Tokyo, as he continues to close the gap on some of the fastest times in history.
In the women’s 3000 metres steeplechase, 20-year-old Faith Cherotich stole the spotlight with a dazzling run that resulted in a world-leading time and a new meeting record of 9:02.60. The previous mark, held for six years by Norah Jeruto, was surpassed in a performance that underlined Cherotich’s evolution into one of the world’s most formidable steeplechasers.
The race featured a gripping battle between Cherotich and Olympic champion Winfred Yavi of Bahrain. Cherotich seized the initiative early, setting a relentless pace that kept her ahead for most of the race. Despite Yavi mounting a late charge in the final lap, Cherotich held her ground and powered through the last water jump and barrier to secure a decisive win. It was her second Diamond League victory over Yavi this season, deepening an already intense and exciting rivalry. Tunisia’s Marwa Bouzayani took third place in a commendable 9:06.84.
Cherotich’s and Wanyonyi’s wins were more than just race victories; they were statements of intent. With both athletes hitting peak form and demonstrating tactical acumen, endurance, and mental fortitude, Kenya looks poised to make a significant impact at the World Championships. Their performances in Oslo not only reaffirmed the country’s legacy in distance running but also introduced the next generation of stars ready to uphold that tradition on the global stage.
