Frankline Kibet wins Kenya's first gold in 5,000m at World U20

Frankline Kibet secured Kenya's first gold medal at the World Under-20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon. He won the men's 5,000m title with a time of 13:28.27 at Hayward Field.

Kibet led a Kenyan one-two finish in the race. Nehemiah Kipng'eno took the silver medal in 13:30.09, while Ethiopia's Damitew Kebede finished third to take the bronze in 13:35.38. This victory marks Kibet's second global junior title, following his win at the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, on January 10.

In that previous championship in Florida, Kibet recorded a time of 23:18. That performance resulted in a full Kenyan podium sweep, with Emmanuel Kiprono and Alamisi finishing second and third with times of 23:20 and 23:28 respectively.

Kenya also earned a medal in the women's 5,000m final through Joyline Chepkemoi. Chepkemoi finished third to claim bronze with a personal best time of 15:09.08. She finished behind Uganda's Charity Cherop, who won gold in 15:03.88, and Ethiopia's Shito Gumi, who took silver in 15:07.91.

Kibet expressed his happiness regarding the championship win. He noted that his training following his success in Florida contributed to his ability to secure this title on American soil.