Athletics coach Paul Kemei yesterday congratulated junior athletes who made their debut in the just concluded World Athletics Cross-Country championships in Barthust, Australia and performed well.

Kemei of Lemotit Athletics Training camp in Kericho County praised two athletes- Joyline Chepkemoi and Diana Chepkemoi from his camp who were participating in their first international competitions and posted impressive results though they finished outside the medal bracket.

Joyline and Diana were competing with the best athletes in the world in the 6km Under 20 Women race where the former clinched position 6 and the latter finished ninth. “I am proud of them for shinning during the outting in Australia though they finished the race outside the medal bracket.

 These are promising athletes with a bright future in sports because they were representing Kenya for the first time in international competitions and managed to finish in good positions,” said Kemei yesterday.

The tactician commended the junior athletes for putting his camp in the World map besides being good ambassadors for the country.

“They are passionate in athletics and always ready to train/learn as they prepare to conquer the world of athletics going forward. So I am proud of them and banking a lot of hope on them,” Kemei added.

Another athlete- Faith Cherotich, the 2022 3000m Steeplechase World champion from Kalyet camp in the county finished fourth in the race. Senayet Getachew (Ethiopia) won gold medal while Pamela Kosgei( Kenya) was third. Beatrice Chebet won 10km senior women race.