Kenyan steeplechase hopes revitalised by young talent

Korir is confident that Amos Serem, the recently crowned World U20 champion in the 3,000m steeplechase, has the potential to secure a podium finish at the upcoming Olympics.

"Serem has the potential to earn a medal in Paris. Kenya has always been a powerhouse in the steeplechase at the Olympics, and we want to reclaim our crown," said Korir.

Serem has made headlines with his impressive recent performances. At the Paris Diamond League, he finished second with a remarkable time of 8:02.36, trailing only behind Abraham Sime of Ethiopia.

His showing was particularly notable as he finished ahead of fellow Kenyan Abraham Kibiwot, who clocked 8:06.70.

This form is a strong indicator of Serem's capabilities, especially in light of the fact that Kenya's impressive 48-year winning streak in the steeplechase was snapped at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

At Tokyo 2020, Morocco's Soufiane El Bakkali triumphed with a time of 8:08.90, with Ethiopia's Lamecha Girma and Kenya's Benjamin Kigen completing the podium.

Kenya's last steeplechase victory was at Rio 2016, where Conseslus Kipruto dominated with a time of 8:03.28.

Kipruto's win was a high point in Kenya's long history of steeplechase success, previously upheld by the likes of Evan Jager from the USA and Mahiedine Benabab of France, who finished second and third respectively.

As the Olympics approach, Korir's belief in Serem's potential is supported by the athlete's recent results and promising performances.

AK is also ramping up its initiatives and programmes aimed at reclaiming the steeplechase crown in Paris, highlighting a renewed focus on nurturing and supporting young talent.

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