Senior Catechist Serem's motivation that propelled Edmund to Kip Keino Classic victory
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 03.06.25. | 15:36
Just back from international duty in Rabat, Morocco, Serem, overcame jetlag and travel fatigue to clock 8:27.68 in a thrilling sprint finish
World U20 champion Edmund Serem reminded Kenyans of his rising star status with a dramatic win in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase at the Kip Keino Classic on Saturday, 31 May at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
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Just back from international duty in Rabat, Morocco, Serem, overcame jetlag and travel fatigue to clock 8:27.68 in a thrilling sprint finish.
Edmund, a younger brother to reigning Diamond League steeplechase champion Amos, edged out Ethiopia’s Fikadu Dink in the process, sending thousands of fans into delirium.
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The 17-year-old was trailing early in the race against a highly competitive field that included five Ethiopians, four Kenyans, a Bahraini, and a Czech, but he displayed maturity and guts beyond his years.
A powerful mid-race surge saw him take control before fending off the final challenge with a perfectly timed kick.
But perhaps the most unforgettable moment came after the finish line when his father, Senior Catechist Serem, stepped into the mixed zone and wrapped his son in a heartfelt embrace. That emotional gesture drew tears and cheers alike from fans and media.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Serem’s father could not hide his excitement. His son winning on home soil was a fulfilment of a dream the family had been chasing for ages.
“I am thrilled when I see them (Amos, Edmund) competing. As a parent, when your kids are flying the country's flag high, you reap the rewards of your hard work,” Catechist Serem said.
He is the man who identified the Serem’s steeplechase talent, nurtured them, and now takes pride in two of the country’s best steeplechase talents.
Beyond his tactical advice on the steeplechase, Serem’s father also imparts spiritual guidance to his sons. He is a devoted catechist at the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret.
“I always encourage them during training and before races. I told him, ‘I want you to go and run your race. I know you got this.’ He was motivated,” he disclosed.
On his side, Serem, who was deeply moved by his father’s presence and support, could only echo his sentiments.
“My dad keeps motivating me. He is everything I ask for. He's my support system and the man who discovered my talent. I respect him,” he offered.
The win adds to Serem’s growing resume, having won gold for Kenya at the 2024 World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru.
He aims to match and surpass the achievement of his older brother, Amos Serem, who triumphed in the Nairobi 2020 edition. Amos was ruled out of the Kip Keino Classic this year due to injury.
