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Faith Cherotich won Kenya its second bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, finishing third in the women’s 3,000m steeplechase. The gold went to Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Winfred Mutile Yavi, who set a new Olympic record with her victory.
The race featured an impressive lineup, including world record holder Beatrice Chepkoech, world champion Yavi, and defending Olympic champion Peruth Chemutai. Chepkoech, the 2019 world champion, initially appeared poised to claim a medal for Kenya, taking the lead after two laps and setting a fast pace. Chemutai and Yavi stayed close behind, preparing for a final showdown.
As the race progressed, Cherotich remained patient, staying clear of the early battle for the lead. When Chepkoech ran out of energy in the crucial moments, it was down to a duel between Chemutai and Yavi. Chemutai seemed set to defend her title, but Yavi launched a powerful kick in the final stretch, overtaking her just before the finish line. Yavi won gold with a time of 8:52.76, setting a new Olympic record, while Chemutai secured silver with a time of 8:53.34.
Cherotich seized her opportunity and surged ahead of the remaining competitors, finishing third with a personal best time of 8:55.15. Chepkoech, unable to maintain her early pace, ended up in sixth place with a time of 9:04.24. This marked another disappointing Olympic performance for the world record holder, who at 33 years old may find the next Games in Los Angeles a challenging prospect for achieving her elusive dream of an Olympic medal.
For the 20-year-old Cherotich, this bronze represents a significant,achievement and adds to her growing reputation, following her bronze medal at the 2023 World Championships. As Kenya's rising star in the steeplechase, Cherotich is poised to be a strong contender for future titles and Olympic glory.
