Berlin silver medallist Ng’etich eyes Worlds
By Emmanuel Masinde, July 28, 2025The 2023 Berlin Marathon silver medallist Vincent Kipkemoi Ng’etich has expressed confidence in Team Kenya’s prospects at the World Athletics Championships, set for September 13-21, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan.
Once the undisputed kings of the marathon, Kenyan men have recently faced stiff competition from rivals such as Ethiopians and Ugandans.
The Tokyo championships now present a golden opportunity for the country to reclaim its legacy.
Ngetich, known for his consistent podium finishes, emphasised the importance of teamwork as Kenya prepares to challenge for medals on the global stage.
“We are going to work as a team, which I strongly believe in. I’m confident we will bring medals home,” said Ngetich.
Though widely recognised now, few know that Ngetich hails from Molo, Nakuru County.
He began his athletic journey at Sachagwan High School, where he competed in the 5000m and advanced to the regional level.
Ngetich revealed that his passion for athletics started early.
“I loved athletics even as a junior,” he said, adding that his mother was once a 1500m runner.
His first major breakthrough came in 2018 when he represented Kenya at the U-20 African Cross Country Championships and won gold, marking his emergence on the continental stage.
He expressed pride in making the national team: “I felt good when I was called and asked if I would join Team Kenya. I accepted the call with gratitude.”
The 28-year-old, who is under Team Mezzo, trains primarily in Kaptagat and occasionally in Iten, both in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
He says he is in peak condition ahead of the championship.
“I have prepared well and I’m in good shape to compete for the country,” he stated.
Ngetich’s marathon record speaks for itself. He finished third at both the 2024 and 2025 Tokyo Marathons, clocking 2:04:17 and 2:03:59, respectively.
He also placed third at the 2023 Boston Marathon.
His career highlight remains his 2023 Berlin Marathon silver medal, where he clocked a personal best of 2:03:13, just 31 seconds behind then-world record holder Eliud Kipchoge.
In Tokyo, Ngetich will join forces in the men’s marathon team with Erick Kiplagat Sang and Kennedy Kimutai, with Hillary Kipkoech named as a reserve.