October 15, 2024

Brussels Victory Fuels High Hopes for Faith Cherotich

Brussels Victory Fuels High Hopes for Faith Cherotich
File photo/Courtesy

Cherotich clocked 9:02:36 narrowly defeating Yavi who came in second at 9:02:87. East African compatriot Peruth Chemutai came in third on a time of 9:07:36.

Faith Cherotich, the 3000 meters steeplechase Olympic bronze medalist concluded her season of the year on high note after winning the Brussels Diamond League. The 20-year-old who is in her first season triumphed over Bahraini Kenyan born athlete Winfred Yavi who is the reigning Olympic champion for the race.

While speaking to CNN journalist Larry Madowo, ‘Toto’ as she is commonly referred in the Kenyan athlete’s arena had this to say after the now famous win, "Today I was saying, let me run my own race because you know it was a strong final. Then I said today might be my day to win and I tried my best and fortunately I thank God I won."

This season holds special significance for Cherotich as it marks her first year competing at the senior level. "My prayer was to win the final Diamond League and I thank God for this season because it's my first senior season and it's been a successful one. Although last year while still at the junior team I made appearances, this year I officially joined the senior team and it's been a fantastic season," she reflected.

 

When asked about what her fans should expect in the upcoming season, Cherotich expressed her determination, saying, “Nimejipea hopes sasa saa hii, nikuenda kung’ang’ana na season inakuja itakua moto,” (“I have high hopes now; I will strive and the upcoming season will be fiery.”)

Cherotich clocked 9:02:36 narrowly defeating Yavi who came in second at 9:02:87. East African compatriot Peruth Chemutai came in third on a time of 9:07:36. The victory was particularly remarkable considering the fact that as Cherotich had previously trailed Yavi and Chemutai in the Rome Diamond League on August 30th.