Koech hopes to make an impact in Tokyo after impressive season
Phanuel Koech catapulted himself into the sport’s consciousness by finishing second in a highly competitive field, breaking the world U20 record with 3:27.72...
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Kenyan teenager Phanuel Koech has rapidly emerged as a force in the 1500m, setting a world U20 record and beating seasoned champions ahead of the World Championships in Tokyo.
- Koech ran 3:27.72 in Paris, securing the world U20 record and placing ninth on the senior all-time list.
- He later won the London Wanda Diamond League event in 3:28.82, defeating world champion Josh Kerr.
- Koech, who was inspired by school alumni like David Rudisha and Emmanuel Korir, aims for a medal in Tokyo despite it being a new experience.
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President Ruto Initiates Push to Make Kenya a Global Sports Powerhouse - September 2025
On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, President William Ruto called upon all Kenyans and stakeholders to collaborate in transforming the nation into a global sports powerhouse. To support this vision, the President has established a technical committee involving the government, Football Kenya Federation (FKF), and the private sector to boost investment and collaboration in sports. This initiative aims to leverage Kenya's abundant sporting talent after years of mismanagement. As an example of this talent, Kenyan teenager Phanuel Koech has set a world U20 record in the 1500m and is preparing for the World Championships in Tokyo. Furthermore, Kenya is hosting the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) Handgun Pre-World Shoot competition in Mombasa, which will prepare the national team for the 2025 World Handgun Championship in South Africa.
