Cherotich eyes WU-20 medal in Cali

Eighteen year old Maureen Cherotich is banking on her experience at last year’s World Under-20 Athletics Championships in Nairobi to conquer the fields in Cali. 

Cherotich managed top position in the women's 5000m as Athletics Kenya (AK) held an invite-only trial on Friday 1 July at Nyayo National Stadium. 

Race walker Wanyonyi ready to defend World Under-20 title after punching Cali ticket

In a field of 14 athletes who had been invited for the trials, the 18-year old clocked 15:14.26 to finish ahead of Jane Ghati who came home in 15:50.53 and Deborah Chemtai who completed the podium places in 16:10.01. 

"The race was good. I had good preparations and the coach had guided me well on how to handle the race from start to finish. The field was strong and they pushed me but I was ready. 

Now that I have the qualifications to Cali, I will use the experience gained here and in my previous races to ensure that I medal for Kenya," said Cherotich. 

In last year's event hosted at Kasarani Stadium, Cherotich came home in sixth place, an experience she says will go a long way in ensuring helps Kenya retain the overall title. 

"I still have a few areas that need working on and alongside the coaches, I hope to get better as the championship gets closer," added Cherotich. 

Meanwhile, 17-year-old Ghati says second-place came as a surprise as she expected a much more competitive race.

This being her second attempt at making the junior team, Ghati says she will use the opportunity, if selected, to prove to herself and others that she can do better. 

"I have not been training well due to school commitments and I was just out to do my best. I came here just to test what my body can do and I am happy with the result. With proper preparations, I know I can do better," said Ghati, a form two student from Kisii County. 

This will be the first time, if selected, for Ghati to represent the country. She had made the African cross country team in 2020 but the competition was not held due to Covid-19. AK maintain that the second slot to the championship will be determined by a panel.

During last year's championship, Kenya missed out on a medal in the distance with Ethiopia taking 1-2 and Uganda in third. Kenya's Zenah Cheptoo was fourth.