Kenya’s quest to reclaim the women’s 3,000 metres title at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships is firmly in the hands of two promising athletes from Kericho County. Faith Cherotich Rono and Mercy Chepng’eno Mageso are set to fly the country’s flag in Eugene, Oregon, as they look to restore Kenya’s dominance in the event.
The two athletes secured their places on the national team after finishing first and second at the trials held two months ago. Cherotich delivered a strong performance to win in 8:58.22, narrowly beating Chepng’eno, who clocked 8:59.00. Their close finish has fueled an emerging rivalry that could play out on the global stage.
At just 18 years old, Chepng’eno continues to build an impressive résumé. She first gained attention after winning bronze in the 2,000m steeplechase at the 2025 African Under-18 Championships in Nigeria. She has since competed at higher levels, finishing eighth at both the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee and the African Senior Championships in Ghana earlier this year.
Chepng’eno credits a key decision early in her career for her rapid progress. Initially a 400m runner, she transitioned to the steeplechase and later the 3,000m flat race following her coach’s advice—a move she now believes unlocked her potential. She heads into the championships confident and determined to secure a podium finish.
Cherotich is equally focused on bringing the title back to Kenya. She believes the country has assembled a strong team capable of excelling in Eugene. She points to her time at the Lemotit training camp as a turning point, saying it helped her sharpen discipline, consistency, and race readiness. With her eyes firmly set on victory, Cherotich hopes to deliver a performance that will reaffirm Kenya’s strength in distance running.
Kenya last won the women’s 3,000m title at the World Under-20 Championships in 2022, when Betty Chelangat triumphed in Cali, Colombia. The current squad is eager to reclaim that glory and add another chapter to the country’s rich athletics history.
A 23-member Kenyan team—comprising 12 male and 11 female athletes—has been selected for the 21st edition of the championships. The competition will take place in Eugene, Oregon, from August 5 to 9. With a blend of emerging talent and strong preparation, Kenya is aiming to once again assert itself as a global powerhouse in middle- and long-distance running.
As the championships approach, all eyes will be on Cherotich and Chepng’eno. Their talent, preparation, and determination could be the key to restoring Kenya’s place at the top of the women’s 3,000m podium.
