Little-known steeplechaser Kosgey keen to reclaim Kenya's world title

Philemon Kosgey

ATHLETICS Little-known steeplechaser Kosgey keen to reclaim Kenya's world title

Abigael Wafula 15:34 - 16.03.2023

Kenya had previously managed to retain the title through Conseslus Kipruto in 2019 and 2017 with Ezekiel Kemboi winning it in 2015.

Little-known Philemon Kosgey believes he has all it takes to steer Kenya back to Steeplechase (SC) glory if he makes the cut to the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary scheduled for August 19 to 27.

The qualifying time in the men’s 3000m SC for the global show stands at 8:15.00 and Kosgey noted that if he has to meet the standard, he will be required to go the extra mile with regard to training.

https://twitter.com/Abie_wafula/status/1634206699891437568?s=20

“My focus now is on the World Championships and I have faith we can reclaim our title in the steeplechase. I am aware it won’t be a walk in the park because our opponents are also training. If I have to realise my dream, I need to polish my speed and endurance…that way, I’ll be good to go,” he said.

Kenya lost the men’s steeplechase world title to Morocco at last year’s World Championships in Oregon courtesy of Soufiane El Bakkali.

Team Kenya had previously managed to retain the title through Conseslus Kipruto in 2019 and 2017 with Ezekiel Kemboi winning it in 2015.

During the third Athletics Kenya meet at the Thika Stadium, Kosgey was in a class of his own when he destroyed a fine field of athletes to win the 3000m SC men’s race in 8:46.40.

Elias Kibet and Albert Kipchirchir settled for second and third place in 8:47.40 and 9:12.20 respectively.

Related content