Abraham Kibiwott, the 3000m steeplechase bronze medalist at the Paris Olympics, is urging patience from Kenyan supporters as the country works to reclaim its distance running dominance. The last gold medal in the event for Kenya came from Conseslus Kipruto in Rio. Kibiwott finished with a season-best time of 8:06.47, trailing defending champion Soufiane El Bakkali and American Kenneth Rooks.
“I dedicate my bronze medal to my seven-day-old daughter, Angel – Kyla Biwott,” Kibiwott said, as reported by Lynne Wachira, Team Kenya’s media liaison. The Paris Olympics saw another steeplechase title slip away from Kenya, with El Bakkali securing his second consecutive gold.
Kenya’s steeplechase dominance, which began with Amos Biwott in Mexico City 1968, has faced recent setbacks. Despite securing bronze in the last two editions and enduring Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma’s fall in Paris, Kibiwott remains hopeful. “I am content with the bronze, but it has given me the belief that I still have much to give to the steeplechase. I urge Kenyans to be a little patient, and we will be back,” he expressed.
Kenya’s rich history in the event includes memorable achievements such as the 1-2 finishes in Munich 1972 and the full podium sweep in Barcelona 1992. With Conseslus Kipruto’s last gold in Rio and recent bronze medals, Kenya is eager to regain its former glory. As El Bakkali continues to make history, Kenya’s runners are determined to reclaim their spot at the top.
The journey of Kenya’s steeplechase prowess began in Mexico City 1968 when Amos Biwott and Benjamin Kogo secured a 1-2 finish. This success was mirrored in Munich 1972, with Kipchoge Keino leading Ben Jipcho to another 1-2 finish. The dominance continued through the years, with Julius Korir winning in Los Angeles 1984 and Julius Kariuki leading a 1-2 finish with Peter Koech in Seoul 1988.
Barcelona 1992 was another highlight, with Kenya sweeping the podium as Matthew Birir, Patrick Sang, and William Mutwol claimed gold, silver, and bronze, respectively. This feat was repeated in Athens 2004, with Ezekiel Kemboi, Brimin Kipruto, and Paul Kipsiele Koech taking home the medals. The streak continued with Joseph Keter’s gold and Moses Kiptanui’s silver in Atlanta 1996, and Reuben Kosgei and Wilson Boit Kipketer repeating the gold-silver feat in Sydney 2000.
Beijing 2008 saw Brimin Kipruto win gold and Richard Mateelong take bronze. In London 2012, Ezekiel Kemboi reclaimed gold, with Abel Mutai adding a bronze. The last gold for Kenya in this event came from Conseslus Kipruto in Rio 2016. However, recent years have seen the dominance wane, with bronze medals in the last two Olympics and El Bakkali denying Kenya the title in Tokyo and Paris.
Kibiwott’s recent performance in Paris, while commendable, highlights the ongoing challenge for Kenya to reclaim its top spot. The competition has intensified, and nations like Morocco and Ethiopia have emerged as strong contenders. Despite these challenges, Kibiwott’s optimism and dedication provide hope for a resurgence.
Kibiwott’s words reflect a deep commitment to his sport and his country’s legacy in distance running. “I am content with the bronze, but it has given me the belief that I still have much to give to the steeplechase. I urge Kenyans to be a little patient, and we will be back,” he emphasized. His dedication to training and improvement is a testament to the resilience and determination that have characterized Kenya’s steeplechase runners for decades.
As Kenya looks to the future, the focus will be on nurturing young talent and refining strategies to compete at the highest level. The country’s history in the steeplechase is a source of pride, and there is a collective determination to return to the top of the podium. Kibiwott’s journey and his recent bronze medal are stepping stones towards this goal.
In conclusion, Abraham Kibiwott’s bronze medal at the Paris Olympics is a reminder of Kenya’s storied history in the steeplechase and a call for patience as the country works to reclaim its dominance. The legacy of greats like Amos Biwott, Kipchoge Keino, and Ezekiel Kemboi continues to inspire current and future athletes. As Kibiwott dedicates his medal to his newborn daughter, he also dedicates himself to the mission of bringing Kenya back to the pinnacle of steeplechase success. With continued effort and support, Kenya’s return to glory is within reach.
