Kenya’s Lilian Odira produced a scintillating performance to
win gold in the women’s 800 metres at the World Athletics Championships in
Tokyo, clocking a championship record of 1:54.62.
Odira, running the race of her life, powered through a
lightning-fast finish to cement her place as world champion.
Her time not only secured victory but also marked a historic
moment as, for the first time, three women dipped under 1:55 in a world
championship final.
She crossed the line ahead of Georgia Hunter-Bell and
Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson, who settled for silver and bronze, respectively.
The triumph handed Kenya its 11th medal at the championships and a remarkable seventh gold, underlining the country’s dominance on the global athletics stage.
President William Ruto led Kenyans in celebrating the victory, describing Odira’s achievement as a source of national pride.
“Hats off to Lilian Odira for a remarkable display of talent. Your triumph in the women’s 800m at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships, crowned with a new championship record, has brought immense pride to our nation. Thank you,” he said.
The President noted that Kenya now stands at seven gold medals and a total of 11 medals, securing second position in the championship so far.
“Well done, Team Kenya. You continue to inspire our nation and prove that the spirit of greatness runs deep in our people,” he added.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen was quick to
applaud Odira’s historic feat.
“All we do is win. Big applause, Lilian Odira, for bagging
us a gold medal in the women’s 800m at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships.
Your triumph is a shining example of Kenya’s athletic excellence and a
testament to the hard work, discipline, and resilience that continue to inspire
our nation,” he said. Murkomen also praised fellow Kenyan runners Sarah Moraa
and Mary Moraa for their effort in the final.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua also joined in
celebrating the victory.
“Congratulations Lilian Odira, for winning gold in the 800m
finals! Your brilliance and determination have made Kenya proud and inspired a
new generation of champions. We also celebrate the Moraa sisters for their
outstanding performances. Well done! The future is bright. Mbele iko sawa,” he
stated.
Odira’s triumph not only adds to Kenya’s glittering history
in middle-distance running but also signals the arrival of a new star on the
world stage, as the country continues to assert its dominance one lightning
finish at a time.
