KENYA; THE OLYMPIC CHAMPIONS OF AFRICA

August 13, 2024 18

Kenya had a remarkable run at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing with a total of 11 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze), making it the leading African nation in the medal standings and ranking 17th globally.

Faith Kipyegon, Gold medalist, 1500m women

1. Gold Medals:

– Faith Kipyegon: She secured her third consecutive Olympic gold in the women’s 1500m, solidifying her status as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history.

– Beatrice Chebet: Achieved an extraordinary double by winning gold in both the 5000m and 10,000m races. Her 10,000m victory was historic as she became the first Kenyan woman to win an Olympic gold in this event

– Emmanuel Wanyonyi: Continued Kenya’s dominance in the men’s 800m by winning gold, marking Kenya’s fifth consecutive Olympic title in this event

2. Silver Medals:

– Margaret Kipkemboi: Finished second in the women’s 5000m, contributing to Kenya’s strong showing in distance events

– Mary Moraa: Took silver in the women’s 800m, enhancing Kenya’s reputation in middle-distance running

3. Bronze Medals:

– Hellen Obiri: Won bronze in the women’s marathon, adding to her impressive tally of international medals.

– Ferdinand Omanyala: Made history by becoming the first Kenyan to win an Olympic medal in the 100m, taking bronze and setting a new milestone for Kenyan sprinters

Setbacks

At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Kenya’s efforts in sports like rugby, boxing, weightlifting, and swimming showcased their expanding athletic capabilities, despite not winning medals. This participation marks progress and future potential in these areas. However, a significant setback occurred when Eliud Kipchoge, the renowned marathon runner, dropped out of the marathon at 31 kilometers due to severe discomfort. This was the first time in his career he failed to finish a marathon, marking a disappointing end to his Olympic journey. Kipchoge has announced he will not compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics but has not retired from marathon running, suggesting a possible new role in the future.

Global Overview of the 2024 Paris Olympics

The global competition was fierce at the 2024 Paris Olympics, with several countries showcasing their athletic prowess across various sports.

1. Top Performers:

– China: Led the medal table with 40 golds and a total of 92 medals, excelling in sports such as gymnastics, diving, and weightlifting

– United States: Finished second with 34 golds and a total of 110 medals, continuing its dominance in athletics, swimming, and team sports

– Japan: The host of the previous Olympics, secured 27 golds, particularly excelling in judo, wrestling, and gymnastics, and finishing third overall

2. Notable Performances:

– France: The host nation performed admirably, finishing with 23 golds and a total of 73 medals, highlighted by victories in fencing, judo, and track cycling.

– Australia: Dominated in swimming, securing 15 gold medals in aquatic events, and finished with a total of 54 medals.

COMPILED BY: ELIZABETH MAINA