Peres Jepchirchir is preparing to return to Japan for the first time since capturing Olympic marathon gold at the delayed 2021 Tokyo Games. The Kenyan star, who triumphed in hot and humid conditions three years ago, has been named in Kenya’s marathon squad for the upcoming World Athletics Championships, set for 13–21 September in Tokyo.
Jepchirchir, 31, a two-time world half marathon champion, will be joined by current Rotterdam Marathon winner Jackline Cherono and Magdalyne Masai, who finished fourth in this year’s Tokyo Marathon. Vivian Cheruiyot has been listed as the reserve.
Reflecting on her selection, Jepchirchir expressed gratitude and optimism.
“I am happy with the confidence the Kenyan selectors have had in me despite the disappointment in the Paris Olympics,” she told AFP in Nairobi. “It’s my first time to compete in the World Championships, and I’m looking forward to it.”
Kenya will face stiff competition from Ethiopia, who are the defending champions. “We know Ethiopia have selected a strong team. But I believe in the Kenya team and I pray God will give us health and strength that day to face them,” Jepchirchir added.
The women’s marathon will take place on 14 September, followed by the men’s race on 15 September.
In the men’s marathon, Kenya will be represented by Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich, who clocked a remarkable 2:03:13 at the 2023 Berlin Marathon on his debut, finishing second behind Eliud Kipchoge. Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion, will not be competing in Tokyo.
Kenya’s 58-Member Squad for the 2025 World Athletics Championships
WOMEN
- 400m: Mercy Oketch
- 800m: Mary Moraa, Lilian Odira, Vivian Kiprotich, Sarah Moraa
- 1500m: Faith Kipyegon, Nelly Chepchirchir, Susan Ejore, Dorcas Ewoi
- 5000m: Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, Agnes Jebet Ngetich, Margaret Ekidor
- 10000m: Beatrice Chebet, Agnes Jebet Ngetich, Janeth Chepngetich
- 3000m Steeplechase: Faith Cherotich, Doris Lemngole, Pamela Kosgei
- Marathon: Peres Jepchirchir, Jackline Cherono, Magdalyne Masai
Reserve: Vivian Cheruiyot - 4x400m Mixed Relay: Mercy Chebet, Lanoline Aoko, Esther Mbagari
MEN
- 100m: Ferdinand Omanyala
- 400m: George Mutinda, Brian Tinega, Kevin Kipkorir
- 800m: Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Nicholas Kiplangat Kebenei, Kelvin Loti
- 1500m: Phanuel Kipkosgei Koech, Reynold Cheruiyot, Timothy Cheruiyot
- 5000m: Nicholas Kipkorir
- 10000m: Edwin Kurgat, Ismael Kipkirui, Benson Kiplangat
- 3000m Steeplechase: Edmund Serem, Simon Kiprop Koech, Abraham Kibiwott
- 400m Hurdles: Wiseman Were
- Marathon: Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich, Erick Kiplangat Sang, Kennedy Kimutai
Reserve: Hillary Kipkoech
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