Wetang’ula, Murkomen cheer Peres Jepchirchir after winning WC gold in sterling fashion
By Kiprono Keileb, September 14, 2025Kenya’s dominance at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo soared higher after Peres Jepchirchir stormed to victory in the women’s marathon, handing the country its second gold medal in just two days.
Jepchirchir clocked 2:24:43, outpacing Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa and Uruguay’s Julia Paternain in a dramatic finish that had fans on edge until the final stretch. Her victory has not only secured Kenya a top spot in the medal standings but also rekindled national pride.
Wetang’ula leads tributes
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula was among the first to celebrate Jepchirchir’s win, praising her consistency and endurance.
“Another Gold for Kenya!” Wetang’ula declared on his official X account on Sunday, September 14, 2025, describing the victory as a moment of glory for the entire nation.
“The work you have put in has paid off; the pride is forever,” he lauded her dedication.
Wetang’ula added that Jepchirchir continues to embody Kenya’s global image as a sporting giant. “We cheer you on, fellow Kenyan, for consistently putting the country on the global map as a home of sporting talent. Hongera tena!”
Murkomen cheers
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also joined Kenyans in celebrating the historic moment, describing Jepchirchir’s run as both brilliant and inspiring.
“Congratulations, Peres Jepchirchir, for winning us another gold in the women’s marathon at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships,” Murkomen posted on X on Sunday, September 14, 2025.
He highlighted the intensity of the race, noting how she edged out Tigst Assefa in a thrilling finish. “In your brilliant run and stunning sprint, edging Tigst Assefa in a nail-biting 2:24:43, you demonstrated our country’s indomitable spirit,” Murkomen wrote.
Encouraging her to keep pushing boundaries, he added, “Keep winning, Team Kenya!”
Chebet’s gold set pace
Jepchirchir’s triumph came just a day after Beatrice Chebet delivered Kenya’s first gold medal of the championships in the women’s 10,000m final. Chebet stormed across the line in 30:37.71, adding the world title to her Olympic crown and world record.
Her performance ignited Kenya’s campaign in Tokyo, setting the stage for Jepchirchir’s marathon brilliance and affirming the country’s reputation as a long-distance powerhouse.
Double victory
For many Kenyans, the back-to-back victories by Chebet and Jepchirchir symbolise more than medals; they embody resilience, discipline, and hope. Wetang’ula’s and Murkomen’s tributes reflected the pride of a nation that has long looked to athletics as a source of unity and inspiration.
With two gold medals already secured, anticipation is growing that Team Kenya could deliver more memorable moments before the championships conclude.
As Jepchirchir lifted her arms at the finish line in Tokyo, she wasn’t just winning for herself; she was carrying the dreams of a country that continues to shine on the global stage.