Deaflympics: Good day for Kenya as newcomer Musembi strikes gold in Tokyo

Kenya’s James Mwanza Musembi is the new men’s 1,500m champion after storming to victory on Wednesday at the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics.

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The 21-year-old, from Machakos County, produced a brilliant front-running display to clinch gold in 3:45.61 at the historic Komazawa Olympic Park Stadium, powering Kenya’s medal surge in Japan.

Compatriot Elikana Kiprop Rono secured silver medal in 3:50.22, while in the women’s 1,500m, Sharon Bitok Jeptarus settled for bronze in 4:43.65.

The results pushed Kenya’s tally to seven medals, two gold, three silver and two bronze, as the Games reached mid-week.

Musembi, who entered the championship as Kenya’s brightest prospect in the race, lived up to expectations with a commanding performance from gun to tape.

Competing in front of hundreds of spectators, he controlled the pace, stretched the field, and never relinquished his lead.

“I am so happy about my victory today,” he said afterwards, beaming with pride after delivering Kenya’s second gold of the Games.

Deaf Athletics coach Samuel Kibet lauded Musembi’s maturity and potential, tipping him for a long and successful career in global deaf competitions.

“Since our national trials, I observed him and realised he has huge potential,” Kibet said.

"We have great hopes in him, and if all goes well, the deaf community will have a champion to watch.”

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Kenya narrowly missed a podium sweep in the men’s race after former champion John Koech faded in the closing stages, finishing fourth in 3:59.35 despite a spirited push.

In the women’s 1,500m, Jullia Emilyevna claimed gold in 4:39.65, while Portugal’s Mira Da Silva M took silver in 4:40.60.

Kenya’s additional representatives, Viola Jelimo and Rebecca Matiko, placed ninth and 14th, clocking 4:55.52 and 5:08.35 respectively.

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For Bitok, the bronze medal required a gritty final-lap surge.

The 2022 Caxias do Sul triple silver medallist, in the 1,500m, 800m and 4x400m relay, had come into the Tokyo edition eyeing her first Deaflympics gold.

She remains in contention as she prepares for the women’s 800m later in the week.

Kenya’s performance on the track marks one of the team’s best starts at the Summer Deaflympics, with promising medal prospects still to come.

Kenya’s Medal Tally So Far:

7 medals — 2 Gold, 3 Silver, 2 Bronze