Kenyan Athletes Triumph in Early 2024 Races, Eyes Set on Paris Olympics

Kenyan Athletes Triumph in Early 2024 Races, Eyes Set on Paris Olympics

Robert Abong'o
March 31, 2024 at 11:24 AM
  • Kenyan athletes have showcased remarkable performances in early 2024 events
  • Notable ones include stellar performances at the 13th African Games in Ghana
  • They also displayed dominance at the 2024 World Cross Country Championships

As 2024 unfolds, Kenyan athletes have already begun leaving their mark in the world of sports, showcasing their prowess and setting their sights on the upcoming Paris Olympics scheduled for July.

With various track and field events serving as platforms for preparation, athletes have been diligently honing their skills while delivering remarkable performances.

Among the notable figures in Kenya's provisional squad for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 are the renowned champions Eliud Kipchoge and Peres Jepchirchir.

Beatrice Chebet (cetntre) led other Kenyans in claiming medals at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships. Photo: Srdjan Stevanovic.
Kenyans Lilian Kasait Rengeruk (left), Beatrice Chebet (centre) and Margaret Chelimo Kipkemboi won medals at the World Athletics Cross Country finals Championships. Photo: Srdjan Stevanovic.
Source: Getty Images

Athletics Kenya disclosed that the selection of the 20 long-listed athletes was based on their world rankings and performances, particularly in significant marathon races throughout the year, as reported by the Olympics.

Kenyan athletes' performances in 2024

Several Kenyan athletes have already claimed victories this year, positioning themselves as strong contenders for the final squad heading to Paris.

Notable among these achievements is Agnes Ngetich's remarkable world record-breaking performance at the 10km Valencia Ibercaja in Spain, where she shaved off an impressive 28 seconds from the previous record.

Furthermore, Benson Kipruto led a dominant Kenyan sweep at the 2024 Tokyo Marathon, setting a new course record. A similar display of dominance was witnessed at the 2024 Rome Marathon, with Asbel Rutto leading the charge to secure victory and a new course record.

The just-ended 13th African Games in Ghana also saw Kenyan athletes excelling across various disciplines. The country displayed its class on the continental stage, from Mary Moraa's victory in the 400m to Janeth Chepngetich's gold in the women’s 10,000m, as reported by The Standard.

March concluded with Kenya reaffirming its dominance at the 2024 World Cross Country Championships. Beatrice Chebet led the charge, defending her title and securing victory for Team Kenya in the senior women's category, while Samuel Kibathi emerged as the new World Cross Country junior champion.

5 races Kenya will be under pressure to deliver

Sports Brief listed the races Kenyan will be under pressure to win at the Paris 2024 Olympics

Kenyans have struggled to win a few races in the past, like the men's 10,000m, which Ethiopians have dominated.

Kipchogye Keino, a pioneer in long-distance running in Kenya, ushered in an era of dominance for the East African country.

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Robert Abong'o photo
Robert Abong'o
Editor - Africa Team
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