Ngetich reveals Chebet’s challenge that inspired historic world cross country triumph
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Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 11.01.26. | 14:55
Speaking after clinching her first global individual title, Ngetich disclosed that Chebet had urged her to ensure the gold medal remains in Kenya
World 10km record holder Agnes Jebet Ngetich has revealed the powerful message she received from Beatrice Chebet before storming to victory at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships Tallahassee.
Ngetich produced a commanding performance on Saturday, 10 January, securing Kenya's tenth successive senior women's title.
Stopping the clock at 31:28 for the 10km race, Ngetich crossed the line 42 seconds clear of the field, registering the second-largest winning margin in the history of the World Cross Country Championships.
Uganda’s Joy Cheptoyek settled for silver in 32:10, while Ethiopia’s Senayet Getachew claimed bronze in 32:13.
Speaking after clinching her first global individual title, Ngetich disclosed that Chebet, the reigning Olympic 10,000m champion and winner of the last two world cross country titles, had urged her to keep the gold medal in Kenya.
“I am so happy with this title,” Ngetich said. “I now have an individual world title, and I am proud to become the 10th woman to win senior world cross country gold for Kenya. Beatrice told me to bring the gold medal back home, and that stayed with me. This title is very special.”
Chebet, who has dominated the event in recent years, missed the 2026 season as she takes time away from competition to prepare for motherhood, leaving Ngetich with the responsibility of extending Kenya’s proud legacy on the global stage.
Behind the runaway winner, the battle for the remaining podium places was intense.
Cheptoyek and Getachew were locked in a tight duel, with the Ugandan gaining a decisive edge through the demanding ‘Alligator Alley’ log section on the final lap.
Cheptoyek negotiated the obstacle more efficiently to pull away and secure Uganda’s first-ever individual senior women’s medal at the championships.
Getachew’s bronze added to her growing résumé, complementing the U20 gold medal she won in 2023.
She also played a leading role in Ethiopia’s team success, guiding her country to their 13th senior women’s team title and first since 2019.
Ethiopia’s scoring quartet was completed by Asayech Ayichew (fourth, 32:44), Aleshign Baweke (fifth), and Alem Tsadik (seventh).
Kenya settled for team silver, while Uganda claimed bronze in the team standings.
Meanwhile, Ednah Kurgat, the 2017 NCAA cross-country champion, led the host nation’s charge, finishing 10th in 33:28 for the United States.
