Rising star Diana Chepkemoi promises greater exploits after ISF triumph
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Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 13.05.24. | 14:15
She aims to break Faith Kipyegon’s 1,500m record in future
International Schools Federation (ISF) World Cross Country Championships Under 18 girl’s winner Diana Chepkemoi is ready to take on the world after an impressive run at the global competition held on the weekend in Nairobi.
The youngster won her race after running 3400m in 10:47:8. She completed the race four minutes ahead of Mary Nyaboke who came in second in 10:51:4. Dorcas Chepkwemoi completed the podium in 10:53:4.
Chepkemoi represented Kenya during the World Cross Country Championships in Australia in 2023 where she finished ninth in the U20 category.
She carried forward the energy to the new year, overcoming a leg injury to claim second place in the junior category of the Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour gold where she finished in 20:12.
“While in Sirikwa, I was prepared for 10th place but God gave me strength and I came in second. I did not expect that position because my leg was injured. When I saw the finish line, I ran my heart out and claimed position two. If not for the leg issue, I would take the first position,” she told Mozzart Sport.
The former world junior cross country bronze medalist was hoping to improve her time during the World Cross Country Championships in Serbia but she failed to travel due to a visa hitch. She came to the ISF competition feeling like a tiger released from a cage.
“It did not happen but all in all, I thank God. My visa did not come out in time, I was disappointed but I did not lose hope. I knew that I have a talent that nobody could take away from me. I went back to training knowing that more races were coming, not just that one,” she offered.
Chepkemoi is a student at Saramek High School in Londiani, Kericho County. She trains at the Lemotit Training Camp under coach Paul Kemei. The youngster reported to the ISF camp on April 20 where she has been sharpening her skills in readiness for the global showpiece.
She was grateful to coach Kemei for his unending support in refining her into a better athlete. From the interview, it was evident that Kemei not only trains her to excel on the track but also to be a better communicator.
The youngster was eloquent, bold, and she articulated her points correctly. She is en route to becoming a great all-rounded athlete. She aims to break Faith Kipyegon’s 1,500m record in future.
Her mentor set the 1,500m world record after running 3:49:11 at the Florence Diamond League in June 2023.
“I thank my coach for always giving me advice and I treasure him because he saw my talent and has been helping to grow it. He also motivates us at the camp and urges us to make it. He promises to take care of us until we become world record holders in the country,” she concluded.
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