The curtain closed on the World Athletics on Sunday, September 21, 2025, as the global competition offered breathtaking moments of sporting excellence and fun.

In yet another show of sporting excellence and dominance, Kenya made its mark on the track and field game, winning seven gold medals, two silver and as many bronze to finish second behind the United States.

People Daily Digital relives the off-the-track fun and fun moments in the mixed zones that might have escaped your attention, from the Kenyan Mzungu who captured hearts to the news of offering athletes cheap medals to savour their victories just immediately after finishing their races.

Cheap medals

 The global athletics event saw a precedent made with athletes receiving a “cheap medal straight after their victory, to allow them to celebrate the moment without delay.

With the traditional ceremony usually planned for the following day, the new development allowed the athletes to savour the moment with the prize around their necks just after their triumphant exploits.

Meanwhile, a conspicuous figure in the Tokyo Games also happened to be Jordann Guether, an American descendant who became a social media sensation and beloved figure in Kenyan athletics, who proved to be Team Kenya’s No. 1 hype-man.

Kenya’s hypeman

From afar, you would think Kenya has a white runner in its ranks. The fun-loving and adventurous American, who fittingly christened himself Wild Mzungu or Kipchumba, just did not fail to amaze and entertain.

From psyching up Team Kenya and trolling his native the ‘boring yues’, Guenther was a fan favourite on the social media pages and his powerful presence at the Tokyo championship.

 According to reports, Guenther’s love for Kenya goes beyond casual fandom—he funds his own trips to events, trains alongside athletes, and uses social media (like his X handle @Jordanguenther1) to amplify their stories globally.

Originally from the United States, Guenther has fully embraced Kenyan culture, particularly its world-renowned running heritage.

His unwavering loyalty to Kenya has seen fans pleading for him to be granted honorary citizenship for his unwavering loyalty.

Dorcus Ewoi

 And finally is Dorcus Ewoi, the World Championship 1500 M silver medallist, who wowed with her excellent command of English.

 Following her second-place finish, where she finished second behind Faith Kipyegon, the little-known athlete stunned the audience and Kenyans alike with her sharp American accent coupled with a unique mastery of the Queen’s language.

The towering athlete delighted in her stunning debut on the world stage, coming from a mere young kid with dreams to become a medallist.

 Following the success and, more importantly the interview, Kenyan promptly googled about the 28-year-old  who happens to be an American-based student, with little surprise at her accent.

 She, however, chose to dedicate the award to her boyfriend after the race, much to the chagrin of the fans commenting ‘niwaachiwe huyu’