Kenya's Faith Cherotich delivered a stunning performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, winning gold in the women's 3000m steeplechase and setting a new Games record.
The 22-year-old crossed the finish line in 9:01.76, surpassing the previous record and securing Kenya's second gold medal of the championships. Cherotich maintained a strategic pace throughout the race, staying close to the leaders before accelerating decisively after the final water jump to pull ahead.
Reflecting on her victory, Cherotich said, "I ran my race, and I was not looking back. The only tactic I had was to win the race, nothing else."
Other Kenyan Highlights
- Lilian Odira, reigning world champion in the women's 800m, qualified for the final after winning her semifinal in 1:59.39. She described reaching the final in her Commonwealth Games debut as a memorable achievement.
- Brian Komen advanced to the men's 1500m final by finishing fourth in his semifinal, joining former world champion Timothy Cheruiyot and world bronze medallist Reynold Cheruiyot, who also qualified after placing second in his heat.
- In the men's 200m, Kenya faced a setback when Elkana Sabila withdrew due to injury. However, Zablon Ekwam won his opening heat with a season-best 20.42 seconds, advancing to the semifinals.
- Vanice Kerubo Nyagisera progressed to the next round in the women's 400m hurdles after finishing third in her heat with a time of 56.43 seconds.
Following the day's events, Kenya stood 12th on the medal table with a total of six medals: two gold, two silver, and two bronze. The 23rd Commonwealth Games will conclude on Sunday, August 2.
