‘I am going to war for Kenya’, Japan-based youngster Muthoni declares
The women’s 3,000m team of Teresia Muthoni and Zena Jemutai will be out to end a victory drought stretching nearly a decade.
The final set for 5:45pm is the last scheduled event in Day One of the World Athletics Under-20 Championships that gets under today at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Japan-based Muthoni admits she is aware Kenya last won gold medal in the women’s 3,000m race through Mercy Chebwogen at the 2012 edition of the championships held in Barcelona, finishing ahead of Ethiopia’s Hiwot Geebrekidan.
Muthoni, who arrived in the country in June for the trials after graduating from Serra High School in Japan, comfortably won the trials in 8:51.69 ahead of Jemutai who crossed the line in 8:55.75.
“I can proudly say I have participated in a number of races in Japan and I think I have enough experience to handle my opponents,” said Muthoni.
“It is our final in the first individual race track competition on Day One and how Jemutai and I approach the race will determine a number of things.
We intend to win Kenya her first gold medal and open the way for our teammates in other events,” disclosed Muthoni who hails from Kinangop, Nyandarua County.
The youngster will be expecting a huge challenge from Ethiopians who are the defending champions but this does not bother her much.
“My only regret is that then fans will not be in the stadium to cheer us on,” added Muthoni who started running as a pupil at Kirathimo Primary School.
The athlete coached by Francis Mwaniki is among the growing list of Kenyan athletes who have been contracted in Japan, having signed a contract with Japan-based Daiso Company.
She has also joined the Italian based sports management company Rosa Associati Management.
“This will be my first appearance in Kenyan colours and there is nothing I want more than to excel and launch my athletics career.”
