Koech names next generation to sustain Kenya’s Commonwealth Steeplechase dominance

Team Kenya steeplechaser Simon Koech is confident that the country's latest crop of talent has what it takes to restore Kenya’s dominance in the water and barrier race.

The 2021 World Under-20 bronze medallist believes the trio of himself, Edmund Serem and Leonard Bett can deliver medals even as Team Kenya prepares for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

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The Games take place from Thursday, 23 July to Sunday, 2 August.

Koech secured his place in Team Kenya after winning the Athletics Kenya Commonwealth Games trials in a thrilling photo finish, clocking 8:16.59.

Serem finished second while Bett completed the podium in third place.

Reflecting on his performance, Koech expressed satisfaction with both his preparation and execution.

“The race went according to plan because I had prepared well for it. My preparations leading up to the trials were excellent, and I am pleased with the outcome. This was the first time I have run 8:16 at the trials. Previously, I ran 8:18 and 8:20-something, so this performance gives me a lot of confidence and hope as we look ahead to Glasgow,” the outspoken Koech said.

Steeplechase has long been one of Kenya’s most successful events at the Commonwealth Games.

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In 2018, Kenya completed a historic podium sweep, with Conseslus Kipruto winning gold in a Games record of 8:10.07 ahead of Abraham Kibiwott (8:10.62) and Amos Kirui (8:12.24).

That result marked the sixth consecutive Commonwealth Games podium sweep by Kenya since 1998.

At the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Abraham Kibiwott upgraded his 2018 silver medal to gold, clocking 8:11.15.

India’s Avinash Sable pushed him all the way, taking silver in a national record 8:11.20, while Amos Serem settled for bronze.

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With strong competition expected in Glasgow, Koech has set ambitious personal targets while remaining focused on the collective goal of returning Kenya to the top of the podium.

“My target at the Commonwealth Games is to run under 8:10 and challenge for the podium,” he said.

The Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) runner is also convinced that Kenya’s future in the event remains secure despite the emergence of strong challengers from other nations.

“I can confidently say that Kenyan steeplechase is in a good place. Serem, Bett and I will do everything possible to ensure the title returns home.

Whether it is one of us or all of us on the podium, our goal is to bring the crown back to Kenya. We are not only focused on the Commonwealth Games but also on the upcoming World Championships,” he added.

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