Veterans Join Coaching: Kemboi and Mateelong to train new steeplechase athletes.
Key Athletes: Amos Serem leads men’s team; Beatrice Chebet heads women’s.
Avoiding Conflicts: Collaborative approach to prevent coaching disputes.
Additional Support: Marathoner Mary Keitany adds training expertise.
A Nation’s Quest for Redemption
Kenya has long been synonymous with excellence in steeplechase, dominating the Olympic podium for decades. However, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games marked a turning point, with Kenya losing the men’s steeplechase title to Moroccan star Soufiane El Bakkali. Determined to reclaim their legacy, Athletics Kenya (AK) has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at ensuring a triumphant return to the top in both the men’s and women’s steeplechase events.
Leveraging Veteran Expertise
One of the cornerstone strategies involves integrating veteran athletes into the coaching framework. AK Nairobi Chair Barnaba Korir announced that two-time Olympic champion Ezekiel Kemboi and 2008 Olympic bronze medallist Richard Mateelong will play pivotal roles in training the new generation of steeplechasers. Their firsthand experience and tactical insights are expected to provide invaluable guidance to the athletes.
Korir emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “Incorporating Kemboi and Mateelong to assist the coaches is a strategic step to ensure our athletes excel on the global stage. Their experience and knowledge of what it takes to win at the highest level can significantly boost our chances of reclaiming the title.”
The Men’s Steeplechase Contingent
Leading the charge in the men’s category is Amos Serem, who will be joined by seasoned athletes Abraham Kibiwott and Simon Koech. This trio, backed by the expertise of Kemboi and Mateelong, aims to restore Kenya’s dominance in the event. The recent performance at the Paris Olympic Trials, where Serem, Koech, and Kibiwott secured qualifying times, underscores the potential within this team.
The Women’s Steeplechase Ambition
While Kenyan men have a storied history in steeplechase, the women are yet to secure an Olympic gold. The last medal was a bronze by Hyvin Jepkemoi at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. AK is keen on changing this narrative. The women’s team, headlined by world record holder Beatrice Chebet, will also feature Faith Cherotich and Commonwealth Games champion Jackline Chepkoech. With their sights set on making history, these athletes are poised to elevate Kenya’s status in women’s steeplechase.
Avoiding Coaching Conflicts: A Unified Approach
To avoid potential conflicts among coaches, which have plagued previous preparations, Athletics Kenya has adopted a more collaborative approach. By bringing in accomplished former athletes to work alongside the coaching staff, AK aims to foster a more cohesive and supportive training environment. This strategy is intended to streamline the preparation process and ensure that all athletes receive consistent and effective guidance.
Additional Support: Mary Keitany’s Marathon Wisdom
In a surprising yet strategic move, Mary Keitany, the former women-only world marathon record holder, has been enlisted to support the training efforts. Although her expertise lies in marathon running, Korir believes that Keitany’s experience and mental fortitude can greatly benefit the steeplechase athletes. “Keitany brings a wealth of experience from her running days. Her presence will be a huge motivation, helping the athletes manage the pressure of global competitions,” Korir noted.
